Obituary for Donald Hatfield

Donald Hatfield

(March 15, 1924 – December 5, 2015)

Donald Houston Hatfield peacefully passed away on December 5, 2015 surrounded by the love of his family. Don is survived by his daughters Sandy Hatfield of Versailles, KY and Susan Hatfield of Sparta, TN; his grandchildren Anne Butera of Pittsburgh, PA, Jon Mussett of Newport, RI, Katy Roberts of Stillwater, OK and Ashley Hatfield of Columbia, MO; and many great grandchildren. Don was preceded in death by his wife Rosalee Hatfield, his daughter Sarah Mussett, his stepdaughter Myra Greenberg and his granddaughter Dena Sorenson. Don was born in Ponca City, Oklahoma on March 15, 1924 to Ollie C. Hatfield and Sara B. LeForce. He lived through the Great Depression, was a 32nd Degree Mason and served his community as a rancher and member of the US Army Corps of Engineers until his retirement. Don served his country in the 325th Glider Infantry 82nd Airborne Division during World War II, he was involved in the invasion of Holland and the Battle of the Bulge. He was awarded three Bronze Stars, the Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

Don meant so very much to so many and had an undeniable impact on all he touched. He had the seemingly infinite capacity to selflessly guide and nurture those around him. He could be tough and strict in a way that made the people around him strive to treat each other and themselves with more love and compassion. While not one for church on Sundays, Don had a special relationship with God and believed strongly there was a purpose and plan for us all. He never preached, but his faith was obvious in the straightforward wisdom he imparted to those in need. The ones he touched will forever remember the simple tunes he whistled and the infectious laugh that warmed their souls. Simply put, Don was a strong man who loved easily and wasn’t afraid to share his love. He made people feel better about who they were and who they could be. He will forever hold a place in the hearts of those that felt his love and will undoubtedly live on through them. Funeral services will be held to honor Don’s life at 10:00 A.M. Saturday, December 12, 2015 at Trout Funeral Home Chapel located at 505 West Grand Avenue, Ponca City with Reverend Robert Montgomery officiating. Immediately following there will be a graveside service at the IOOF Cemetery on S. Waverly St. Casket bearers will be John Sweet, Greg Magruder, Jon Mussett, Garry Roberts, Kyle Hibbets, and Kevin Mussett. In lieu of flowers, Don’s family asks that donations be made in Don’s name to The Wounded Warrior Project National Processing Center PO Box 758541 Topeka, Kansas 66675-8541.

Source: Trout Funeral Home