Ernest Hatch

Biography: Ernest "Ernie" Hatch, 77, passed away on the morning of September 26, 2023.
Ernie is missed by his many friends and his chosen family from the Arc Madison Cortland and the Kirley family.
Ernie was a man who enjoys joking around with staff, collecting many different things and smoking a cigar outside. He would let you know when to leave him alone or when he is ready to talk. He would rather approach others than be approached by others. If you got a simple gift of paper with his letter "H" on it or writing utensils, you knew that you were liked. Ernie had limited communication skills, but was able to make his needs and wants known when needed or wanted. He was the kindest man but also the most stubborn.
Ernie worked at Alternatives Industries. He liked the socialization and freedom of the Senior Group Day Habilitation, which he started attending in October 2003. Ernie was able to retire from work completely on May 9, 2005 and attended the Senior Program fulltime.
Funeral services will be held 2PM, Monday, October 2, 2023 from the Campbell-Dean Funeral Home, Inc., 260 Main Street, Oneida. Interment will be made at St. Patrick's Cemetery. Friends may call at the funeral home on Monday, 1PM- 2PM, prior to the funeral service.