The Community Foundation for Brevard and the Walter J. Gatti Foundation boards of directors together announce an initial, transformative gift of $5.4 million to create the Walter J. and Dorothea Gatti Foundation. As an endowed advised fund at the Community Foundation, the Walter J. and Dorothea Gatti Foundation will distribute annual grants in perpetuity to support causes and initiatives the couple were passionate about.
Walter J. Gatti, born in New York City, was a visionary who left an indelible mark on the engineering world and much more during his 88 years. As the founder and CEO of Tensor Engineering in Indian Harbour Beach, Florida, Walter led his company to be instrumental in the construction of over 4,000 steel bridges, including iconic landmarks like the Leonard P. Zakim Bridge in Boston and the new San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge. Known for his expertise and innovation, Walter also served as chair of the National Steel Bridge Alliance and other industry organizations, earning admiration as a mentor and leader.
Walter’s fascination with steel bridges began during his youth commuting in New York, inspiring him to create Tensor Engineering at just 25 years old. His passion extended into aviation, where he became a licensed pilot, often donating his aircraft and services for humanitarian missions. Among his many contributions, he supported the Veteran’s Airlift Command, personally flying over 100 missions for veterans in need.
Dorothea Gatti, born in Philadelphia, was a radiant presence to all who knew her. While serving as treasurer of Tensor Engineering and working side-by-side with Walter, Dorothea’s care and compassion for others extended deeply into the community through her volunteer board service for Serene Harbor, South Brevard Women’s Center, Health First Aging Institute, and more.
Together, Walter and Dorothea’s philanthropy elevated the community through their generous support of many charitable organizations and efforts, including the Walter and Dorothea Gatti Scholarship, helping more than 70 students attend Florida Institute of Technology.
“We were fortunate to work alongside the Gattis for many years,” said Michael Cerow, president of the Walter J. Gatti Foundation. “We are gratified to know our integral promise – to ensure their philanthropic intentions were realized – will continue on in perpetuity.”
“The Gattis designed more than steel bridges—they crafted connections that shaped their community,” commended Janice Swift, friend and director of the Walter J. Gatti Foundation. “They were genuinely charitable, and we are honored to carry that care and commitment forward.”
Dale Dettmer, treasurer of the Walter J. Gatti Foundation, added, “The Gattis’ commitment to excellence and efficacy, interest in specific causes, and desire to strengthen community bonds align perfectly with the Community Foundation as the permanent home for the Walter J. and Dorothea Gatti Foundation.”
Elizabeth Shorr, board chair of the Community Foundation, shared, “We are proud to build upon Walter and Dorothea Gatti’s legacy of generosity and steadfast vision for a better world through the Walter J. and Dorothea Gatti Foundation, ensuring their presence and impact endure forever.”
