Obituaries

Richard “Rick” Hatcher went to heaven on Sunday morning, Nov. 24th, at 82 years of age and after a courageous and painful battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was surrounded by his family at home where he had been lovingly and sacrificially cared for by his daughter, Cathy and son-in-law, Mike.

Rick was born in Wisconsin, then joined the Navy which brought him to Virginia where he met his late wife of 56 years, Barbara Satchell Hatcher. Following the Navy, he retired from the Newport News Shipyard after 38 years.

Rick and Barbara made their home in Newport News, Va. where they raised their three children. They attended Northside Christian Church.

Dad, aka Paw Paw, will be remembered as a kindhearted and selfless man. He enjoyed building things for friends and family. He is known best for his bird houses. He was also referred to as Dr. Doolittle for his caring of all the yard animals and family pets. He was an avid fisherman as well. However, his true passion was spending time with the family, especially attending the sporting events of his grand and great grandchildren. He was also a lifelong and devoted Redskins fan.

He is survived by his children, Karen Hatcher Shelly (Bill), Catherine Hatcher Handle (Mike), Richard D. Hatcher, Jr. (Robin); brother, James Hatcher (Suzi); brother-in-law, Walter Satchell (Jane); seven grandchildren, Richard “Keith” Wolford, Steven M. Wolford (Heather), Morgan Shelly Erazo (Pancho), Grayson H. Shelly, Brianna Hatcher Clevenger (Ben), Joshua Hatcher (fiancé Lindsay), and Jenna Hatcher; and six great-grandchildren.

Friends and family will be received at Peninsula Funeral Home, 11144 Warwick Blvd., Newport News on Wednesday, Nov. 27th at 11:30 a.m. followed by a memorial service at 1:00 p.m.