Thomas L. Schattke, 87, of Sterling died Friday, May 8, 2026 at Shepherd Premier in Sterling. Thomas was born September 22, 1938 in Chicago, IL the son of Karl and Dotty (Henniges) Schattke. He married Diana Cole and had six children. He then married Catherine Ramer. They both preceded him in death.

   Tom was a mechanical engineer and owned Rock Engineering and TLC design. He then worked for ITT Aerospace in Fort Wayne IN where he held a patent and later retired from there. He enjoyed scuba diving and traveling. His greatest love was ministering the Word, such as giving sermons, writing booklets, and sending weekly emails. Tom was a kind man and good listener. One of his favorite sayings was "It's nice to be important, but it's more important to be nice".

   Survivors include his children Carl (Dawn) Schattke, Arthur (Melissa) Schattke, Nathan Schattke, Jonathan (Laura) Schattke, Nora (Richard) Parkman, Elise (Dwayne) Wilson, and Cindy (Dustin) Bitterman; 17 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren.

   Thomas was also preceded in death by his parents and two brothers Karl Schattke and Rudolph Schattke.

   Cremation Rites have been accorded, and a private family service will take place at a later date.

   Condolences may be sent to www.schillingfuneralhome.com