Robert Wayne "Bert" Gattman, age 68, of Oroville passed away suddenly on the afternoon of March 6th, 2024 on the family farm in Oroville, Wa. Bert was born on February 3rd, 1956, in Tonasket, Wa. He was the son of Louis Conrad Gattman, Sr. & Genon Shirley Anderson. Bert graduated at the Tonasket High School in 1974.

Bert leaves behind a legacy of love, wisdom, and generosity. He is survived by his family starting with his high school sweetheart and loving wife LaVonna Gattman, whom he married on August 17th 1976, their five children: Daughter Jessica & (Jason Doughman) of Spokane, Son Kristopher of Tonasket, Daughter Valerie & (William "Billy" Van Roy) of Salem Oregon, Daughter Staca & (Tom Perry) of Tonasket, Daughter Alexia & (Cody Clark) of Elk, their seventeen grandchildren and two great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and uncle Sid Anderson of Omak.

Bert's dedication to his family and community is an example to all. Bert was a jack of many trades, as he grew a garden with love and preserved the harvest not just for himself but for all to his family and friends to enjoy, he just asked "Bring the jars back". Bert was always teaching someone something and if you were that lucky person who knew him well, you knew if Bert didn't have it, they either never made it, and or he could make it for you, yes seriously all while giving you the words of wisdom on how to fix it, or doing things for the better of everyone around him.  He got some of his knowledge by getting started as a small engine mechanic at Dan Coe's just north of Tonasket, and he was known by the CB handle "screwdriver". He then joined the United States Navy in 1974 and made it to a GMT2-E5 on the USS Kitty Hawk and USS Ranger. He received the NUC Award & to put it into perspective "I do not know anyone personally that received a silver star...other than Bert apparently." After his service, Bert and his Wife came home and founded Bert's Satellite in 1985, which they ran together until his passing. He was a collector of AMC Ramblers, parts, and showcased his versatility and passion for life. May we continue his legacy of compassion and service.

His loving family is planning a celebration of life memorial later this year to honor Bert's memory and continue his legacy & let us celebrate the life of Bert Gattman, a man who wore many hats but always put the needs of others before his own.