Horst J. Gatz

05/14/1942 – 12/16/2011

Strange is our situation here upon earth
Each of us comes for a visit, not knowing why,
Yet: sometimes seeming to divine a purpose
From the standpoint of daily life, however,
There is one thing we do know:
That people are here for the sake of other people…
Above all, for those upon whose smile and well being
Our own happiness depends,
And also for the countless unknown souls with whose
Fate we are connected by a bond of sympathy,
Many times a day I realize how much my own outer and~
Inner life is built on the labors of other people,
both living and dead,
And how earnestly I must exert myself in order to give
in return as much as I have received
And I am still receiving.
– Albert Einstein

Horst was a kind, generous, giving and complicated man who was deeply loved by his family and friends. He leaves behind his beloved Bonnie Grantham, his devoted sister Inge Gatz-Gilbar and brother-in-law Steven Gilbar. His brother Roland Gatz (Trudy), his niece Connie Letke (Joe), his nephew Sky Gilbar, his grandniece Marta Letke, grand- nephew Joey Letke, an extended family and countless friends. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, his spirit, laughter and welcoming smile.

A celebration of his life will be held on Sunday, January 8, from 2 to 4 pm. at his sister’s home, 136 Olive Mill Road, Montecito, CA. 93108. We welcome all who wish to celebrate Horst’s life here on earth and remember the goodness and love he shared so freely,

Donations in his memory may be made to: The Mental Health Association in Santa Barbara, 617 Garden Street, Santa Barbara, CA