Eric "Rick" N. Dallmann, 53, of Racine, passed away unexpectedly, Monday, Nov. 16, 2009, at his residence. Eric was born in Racine, Oct. 14, 1956, son of the late Earl and Shirlie (Nee: Bentz) Dallmann.

Eric attended St. Edward's School and graduated from St. Catherine's High School "Class of 1974." He was employed by Racine County as a Deputy Sheriff for 12 years and worked with the Department of Corrections for the past eight years earning the rank of Captain. On Jan. 23, 1999, he was united in marriage to Lynne Chatham.

Eric was a member of St. Edward's Catholic Church. He had many interests and talents which included photography, gardening, being a handyman, he could fix just about anything. He loved to cook and made a "mean" lasagna and pecan pie. Eric had an especially beautiful bond with his Dobermans, Tasha, Kallie, and Zoey. He enjoyed collecting and restoring items of sentimental value, often for the sake of posterity. He enjoyed sports and for years could be seen as an umpire and referee for the city of Racine. Eric was well liked, respected and a loyal friend to many. He not only had friends in high places but would find a friend in every place. He had a lifelong devotion to his mother before and after her passing. Above all, Eric was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, son, and brother who will be dearly missed.

Survivors include his loving wife, Lynne; his five children, Marie Morocco, Kristine Dallmann, Daniel Dallmann, Benjamen Chatham, and Jessica Chatham; grandson, Eric Morocco; brother, William "Bill" J. Dallmann; two sisters, Elfrieda "Fritzie" (Dick) Sawasky, Eloise Wallace; stepfather and stepmother, Donald and Elaine Longmore; 15 step brothers and sisters; many nieces, nephews, relatives, friends and neighbors. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Earl "Bud" Dallmann and sisters, Roberta "Bobbi" Strait and Sherl Theres; niece, Katie Sawasky; and nephew, Jamie Sawasky.

Eric's love and respect for Don Longmore extended well beyond that of a step-parent, step-son relationship. Don was a father-figure, a mentor, and an unlimited source of knowledge for many of Eric's questions throughout his life. Don's love for Eric and his family is recognized as infinite and unconditional. Eric's love for his children is a direct reflection of the love and support he was shown by Don.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, Nov. 23, 2009, 10 a.m. at St. Edward's Catholic Church, 1401 Grove Avenue with Rev. Allen Bratkowski officiating. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Sunday at the funeral home from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and Monday at the church from 9 a.m. until time of Mass.

"A beautiful life

that came to an end,

he died as he lived,

everyone's friend.

In our hearts a memory

will always be kept,

of one we loved,

and will never forget."

Maresh-Meredith &

Acklam Funeral Home

803 Main Street

(262) 634-7888

Condolences may be sent to:

www.meredithfuneralhome.com