Robert Edwin Hatfield Sr.

Newburgh - Bob passed away on Sunday, December 2, 2007 in Montgomery after a long illness.

He was with his family when he passed. Bob was the son of Ray V. Hatfield & Margaret L. Keegan and was born April 27, 1915 in Newark, N.J. Bob married Rita Mary Donahue on April 25, 1943 in St. Patrick's R.C. in Newburgh. Rita predeceased Bob on December 30, 1991.

Bob was retired from Ironworkers Local 417 where he had just received his 65 Year Membership pin, making him the longest serving member at the time of his death. Bob proudly served his country during World War II in the U.S. Navy where he attained the rank of Boatswain's Mate, First Class. He was part of the first wave of the Normandy invasion at Omaha Beach. He was awarded the American Area Campaign Medal and the European-African-Middle Eastern Area Medal with two stars. He enlisted on May 26, 1942 and was honorably discharged on February 24, 1946.

Prior to WW II, Bob worked with his brother, Ray, in a charter fishing business in South Florida. They were part of a crew that landed a then world record blue marlin. One of Bob's fishing buddies was the late writer, Ernest Hemingway, whom he spoke fondly of throughout the years.

After the war, Bob moved to New Windsor where he lived until his death. During that time, he became quite the gardener having grown prize winning roses and cultivating an incredible vegetable garden that consumed his entire back yard!

Along the way, Bob developed a love for the game of golf and was an active player until his late 80's. He was a member of Osiris Country Club and he loved the friendships he developed over the many years he was a member.

Bob is survived by his three children: Ann Mandoske, Susan Monaco and her husband, Gesidio (Chip) and Robert E. Hatfield Jr. and his wife, Barbara, all of the Town of Newburgh. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Karin L. Pedi, Kristin L. Hatfield and Brian J. Hatfield. Additionally, he is survived by his three great-grandchildren: Joshua, Ryan and Bree Pedi, who affectionately called him, "Paparooski".

Bob was predeceased by both his parents; his wife, Rita; his brother, Ray; and sisters: Margaret, Lorraine and Doris. His sisters, Harriet and Viola survive him.

Visitation and prayer services were held on Tuesday, December 4, 2007 at the Brooks Funeral Home, Inc., 481 Gidney Ave., Newburgh, N.Y. Interment will be held at a future date at the convenience of the family.

The family has asked that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Ironworkers Sick & Disabled Fund, Ironworkers Hall, 583 Rte. 32, Wallkill, NY 12589.

Arrangements have been made by the Brooks Funeral Home. To send a condolence, please visit BrooksFH.com or call 845-561-8300.