Donald J. Hattery, 93, passed away on Wednesday, August 4, 2021 after a lengthy illness surrounded by his family.
Born on February 7, 1928 in Plymouth, Indiana he was the son of James and Dorothy Hattery.
Donald met Dorothy Freese through her brother Robert and on February 28, 1948 they were married in Plymouth. She preceded him in death in 2003.
He worked for McCord’s Tool and Die for 30 years before his retirement. Donald had a passion for country music and old cars. Donald was an admired steel guitar and fiddle player. Don was in more country bands than one could ever mention. The bands that he played with had many faithful followers.
Don loved classic cars and owned many throughout his life. He was an avid bowler, bowling on many leagues including a mixed couple league with Dorothy. He belonged to the Plymouth Loyal Order of Moose #741 and the Veterans of Foreign War Post #1162.
He is survived by his children: Ross (Karla) Hattery of Albuquerque, NM; Rhoda Hall of Plymouth; and Rita Pepple of Plymouth; brother Leroy Hattery of LaPorte; 13 grandchildren and several great-grandchildren and nieces and nephews.
Don is preceded in death by his parents, James and Dorothy his wife Dorothy, two sisters: Cora and Sadie, brother George, son Richard and his lady companion Pauline Atkins.
A graveside service will take place on Thursday, August 12, 2021 at 11 am in the New Oak Hill Cemetery, Plymouth with Life Celebrant James Smart officiating.
The family would like to extend a very special thank you to Elara Hospice Care for all of their care and compassion to Donald.
Memorial contributions can be made to Elara Caring Home Health Care, 2515 N. Bendix Dr. #103, South Bend, IN 46628.
Teri j clary says
God bless and keep all who knew and loved him.
Tereasa Moore says
So enjoyed meeting him when he came out to visit Ross and Karla. We loved listening to him play his fiddle. A lot of fun being around him. Enjoy your rebirth with no more pain.
Barbara Dunlap says
Rita & Family, Sorry to hear of the loss of your Dad. I did not know him but felt I did from our conversations. He will be with you always in your memories. May God richly bless each of you during this time.
Pati Justice says
Absolutely loved the past months and being able to get to know him. He was a very very special man. Will always have a place in my heart ❤️.
Pati Justice.
Karen S Woods says
Sorry for your loss!! I loved him!! He was a wonderful man and he will be missed!! Praying for all of his family to feel the comfort of God in this sad time!!
Cindy montgomery says
Rita, so very sorry for your loss
Cindi Rust Eads says
So sorry for your loss. Our families used to get together years ago as my dad and yours were friends. I remember spending many nights hanging out listening to the music. He was a very sweet man.
God Bless you all.
Jerald L. Hattery Sr. says
I admired Uncle Don all my life. He was a great man and inspiration to more than we’ll ever know. You will be missed.
Suzanne M Gibson says
THE MEMBERS HERE AT THE VFW 1162 AUXILIARY PLYMOUTH
ARE HEART BROKEN TO HEAR OF DON’S PASSING HE WAS A ONE OF KIND
WE ALWAYS ENJOYED SPENDING TIME VISITING WITH DON WHEN HE CAME DOWN TO THE POST AND LISTENING TO HIS MUSIC WHEN HE BROUGHT DOWN AN INSTRUMENT TO PLAY FOR ALL OF US THERE
WE WILL MISS HIM
OUR THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH HIS FAMILY AND MANY FRIENDS
SUZANNE GIBSON
VFW AUXILIARY CHAPLAIN -SECRETARY