"I carried you every second of your life & will love you every second of mine."

Gabriel Dustin Zernicke, born into eternal life on Friday February 7, 2025.

Gabriel, the son of Oliver and Mallory (Ruechel) Zernicke was diagnosed with Limb Body Wall Complex (LBWC), a rare condition that meant he was only to know love and warmth within the womb. Knowing that his time here on earth would be brief, they cherished every moment they had with him.

Though we never got to hold him in our arms, Gabriel was held in our hearts from the moment we knew of him. He was deeply loved every step of the way, and we take comfort in knowing he is now in Heaven cradled in God's embrace. He will always be our beloved son, our angel watching over us. We find comfort in knowing that love never ends, and one day, we will meet again.

Gabriel was preceded in death by his grandfather, Dustin Zernicke.

Gabriel is cherished by his loving family, including his parents, Oliver and Mallory Zernicke; his grandparents: Connie (Andy Vande Hei) Zernicke and Rodney and Becky Ruechel; his uncles: Dylan Ruechel and Dalton (Hannah) Ruechel and their son Ryker; his great-grandparents, Delmer and Rozanne Zernicke, Lowell and Deanna Pederson, Leon and Janet Ruechel and John and Audrey Ullmer.

A Funeral Mass and burial will be held at St. Edward and Isidore Church, 3667 Flintville Rd., Flintville, on Saturday February 22, 2025, at 11:00am.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Meriter Hospital in Madison. Especially the compassionate team in Maternal and Fetal Medicine, for their care and support during this difficult time. Their kindness and professionalism will always be remembered.

Until we meet again, sweet Gabriel.