Obituary of Dwain Roger Gatterdam

After a long-life adventure of 81 years (born November 11th, 1936), Dwain Gatterdam passed away on December 17th, 2017.  Dwain is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Barbara Gatterdam; children, Pamela Space, Scott Gatterdam, Cindy Halbert, and Mark Gatterdam; seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.

“Your hardest times often lead to the greatest moments of your life. Keep going. Tough situations build strong people in the end.” Quoted by Roy T. Bennett but could have been straight from Dwain’s mouth.  Dwain was a strong and loving man who pursued success, even when the cards were stacked against him.  Maintaining a strong work ethic, he was able to overcome a spinal cord injury, to serve his country in a covert capacity for over 50 years.  During that time, Dwain travelled in the interest of the Agency, defending and supporting what he believed in.  While Dwain’s experiences were never shared, his passport stamps tell another story.  His job was his passion, which he and his family were very proud of.

An all-American man, Dwain enjoyed the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, as well as being the patriarch to his four children, seven grandchildren and one great grandchild.  He lived life to the fullest, and on his terms. Internally strong, perpetually determined, only demanding the very best of you, he was enjoyed and loved by those around him. We will miss him terribly, and we will attempt to live by his example, in good times and bad.

Family and friends are invited to remember Dwain, on Friday, January 5th, 2018, from 5:30 pm - 8:30 pm, at BRX American Bistro in Great Falls, VA.