Doris Custer Hattin

Doris Custer Hattin, 85, of Bolton, formerly of Manchester, wife of the late Eugene "Gene" Hattin, passed away June 12, 2017, at her home, surrounded by family and friends.

She was born March 14, 1932, in Manchester, daughter of the late Walter and Elsie Custer of Manchester and was also predeceased by her sister, Ethel Custer Bouton. Following high school, Doris attended the University of Connecticut as a physical education major. She remained an avid fan of the UConn women's basketball program.

Doris always considered herself blessed because her husband was her best friend with whom she shared all phases of her life. They met as employees of the Hartford Courant and built a life, sharing dreams and hobbies. Doris was also a life member of Temple Chapter, Order of Eastern Star, where she was honored with a 50-year pin and life membership.

Doris was employed at the Hartford Courant, beginning in the business office when the newspaper was on State Street in Hartford. She became a member of the Women's Department staff and rose to the position of women's club editor and assistant woman's editor. Her by-line features appeared often in the Sunday society section. Some of these included interviews with Lady Bird Johnson and Pat Nixon when their husbands were candidates for vice president of the United States. Her interview with Ella T. Grasso as a first term candidate for Secretary of the State of Connecticut eventually led to her becoming a member of Mrs. Grasso's staff following her election to that office. She continued to serve Mrs. Grasso during her campaigns for the Sixth District Congressional seat.

Doris was a dog breeder and obedience trainer of her Shetland sheepdogs for more than 30 years and a volunteer instructor for the Wapping dog training class, where her reputation as an outstanding trainer was evidenced by the success of her own dogs and those dogs and handlers who trained under her. More recently she and her beloved shih tzu, La-cee, who passed away the same day as Doris, were members of the Alan's Angels Therapy Dog Program of Bolton Veterinary Hospital.

Holmes Funeral Home of Manchester is caring for the arrangements and the funeral will be private.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Alan's Angels Memorial Fund c/o Bolton Veterinary Hospital, 222 Boston Turnpike, Bolton, CT 06043; or Bolton Volunteer Fire Department, Bolton Center Road, Bolton, CT 06043; or Shriners Hospital for Children in Springfield.

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