Robert E. Hatch

Robert E. Hatch, age 91, passed away Thursday, October 12, 2006 at Manor Care of Naperville. He was born July 3, 1915 on the family farm south of Lisle to John and Bertha (nee Hermann) Hatch. The farm is now part of the Four Lake Village.

Robert married Dorothy Drendel, June 11, 1941 at SS. Peter & Paul Church, Naperville. During the depression he worked for many of the local farmers and for a while joined the CCC's.

During the war years, he was employed by the Naperville Boiler Works. Before becoming a mechanic in 1948 for Cromer's Ford Dealership in downtown Naperville, he built his own home in Lisle, (without the use of any power tools) for growing his family.

In 1955, Bob went back to what he loved best, farming. He was the farm manager for Illinois Benedictine University. Formerly known as the St. Procopius College Farm, until the land was sold to developers in 1972. He finished his working career as a carpenter for the Morton Arboretum of Lisle.

Bob loved ballroom dancing and was also an avid American history buff, with a special interest in the Civil War era.

Due to failing health in 2000, Bob sold his home and spent the last six years living with his children. He particularly enjoyed spending his winters in Florida with his daughter, Beverly.

Survivors include, his four children, Ronald (Donna) Hatch of Oswego, IL, Beverly Hatch of Orlando, FL, Joyce (Dennis) Nelson of DeKalb, IL, Brian (Susan) Hatch of Fairbury, IL; five grandchildren, Brent Janel) Hatch of Denver, CO, Bruce (Stefnie) Hatch of Victoria. MN, Laura (Ted) Peshia of Newark, IL, Jenette and Elizabeth Hatch of Fairbury, IL; seven great grandchildren; two brothers, Martin (Blanche) Hatch, Alvin (Genivieve) Hatch, both of Lisle; plus many nieces and nephews.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Dorothy in 1981.

In lieu of flowers, memorials contributions may be made to the favorite charity of donor's choice.

Visitation, Sunday, October 15, 2:00-7:00 PM at Friedrich-Jones Funeral Home 44 S. Mill St., Naperville, IL 60540. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, October 16 10:00 AM at the ST. Joan of Arc Church in Lisle (Corners of Kingston and Front Streets). Interment will follow at SS. Peter St. Paul Cemetery, Naperville, IL.