ROCKLAND — George Nicholas "Nick" Schatzle, D.V.M., 80, died April 18, 2015, at home surrounded by his family after a long, gallant battle with Parkinson's disease.

Nick was born in Rochester, N.Y., on May 6, 1934, the son of George J. and Ida Caroline Van Horne Schatzle. He is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Gail Connors Schatzle; his two sons, Allen M. Connors and his wife, Mame, of Bethel, and Evan A. Connors of Jackson, N.H. He was also blessed with four grandchildren, Grace, George, Harry and Isabella Connors; and is survived by his mother-in-law, Jill K. Marshall of Camden.

In June 1982, Nick married Gail Connors and the couple planned to celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary in June.

Dr. Schatzle graduated from Cornell University in 1959 with a degree in veterinary medicine. After working for other animal hospitals, he opened his own practice, Rumney Animal Hospital in Rumney, N.H., specializing in the treatment of small animals. Nick was beloved by his clients and was missed when he retired to Maine in 1989, having practiced veterinary medicine for 30 years.

When Nick wasn't working, he enjoyed fishing and hunting, chopping and splitting wood, and working outdoors. He will be greatly missed by his dear friends, co-workers, his family and especially by his wife, Gail.

The family wishes to thank his friends, caregivers, doctors, Kno-Wal-Lin Homecare and Hospice, the Sussman House, the Rockland Fire Department Response and Rescue Team, and especially Julie Smith of South Thomaston.

A memorial gathering will be held Saturday, April 25 from noon to 2 p.m. at Burpee, Carpenter & Hutchins Funeral Home Reception Hall at 104 Limerock St. in Rockland.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Nick's memory to The Sussman House, c/o Kno-Wal-Lin, 170 Pleasant St., Rockland, ME 04841.