Eric Fred Poetschke

Eric Fred Poetschke, "Grandaddy", born November 5, 1927 in Dallas, TX to Eric H Poetschke and Mary Brandes Poetschke was of Lutheran Faith. He graduated from North Dallas High School in 1945. At the young age of 17, after requesting his father sign a waiver allowing him to join the United States Navy early, he began proudly serving his country as a Gunner's Mate (Missiles) Petty Officer 3rd Class aboard the USS Block Island in the Pacific Theater during World War II and the Korean Conflict. During leave in January 1946, he met the love of his life, Nelda Jean Lamb; they were sure to reconnect when he was discharged in 1946, where they began dating steady, then were united in marriage on December 5, 1947. Eric and Nelda were married for 66 happy years, during which they raised 5 children. Together, they worked hard to build the farm, family, and life of their dreams by the sweat of their own backs, carried forward by their love for one another.

Eric is predeceased but joyfully reunited for eternity, by his wife Nelda Poetschke, his parents Eric & Mary and brothers Gerhard Poetschke and Harry Poetschke. He is survived by his son John Eric Poetschke and wife Cindy, son Roy Poetschke and significant other Hong Tran, daughter Karen Locklear, daughter Lisa Poetschke, daughter Dana Cade and husband George, 11 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren and 2 great, great grandchildren.

Eric honored and served his God and Country. His love for his wife, Nelda, was unprecedented. Eric was a caretaker of people, all creatures great and small and was an embodiment of The Greatest Generation. He acted to serve others tirelessly. Eric had a heart for animals, which he treated with exceptional, unwavering care. He was well known for his noble help of any dog that needed rescuing and countless hours serving rescue organizations. He shared a particularly special bond with numerous rescue dogs, cats and birds, but most of all, his horse Wildfire and pony Dumpling. Hearing him tell stories about the countless animals he had rescued and cherished over the years was truly a special experience, as you could hear the passion, love, and humor for each pet in his voice. If you feel compelled to give, in lieu of flowers, it is Eric's wish that donations be made to an animal rescue organization of your choice. In his memory, give the pets in your life an extra treat today, he would tell you they deserve it!