Barbara J. Hatch, family matriarch
Barbara J. Hatch, 90, formerly of Lewes, passed peacefully Sunday, March 11, 2018.
Born to Dr. Edward and Louise Roberts of New Haven, Conn., Nov. 21, 1927, it was quickly realized she would be the social butterfly she later proved to be.
After marrying the love of her life, Fred J. Hatch Jr., they settled in Oak Park, Mich., and later relocated to Wilmington.
Fred and Barbara had five beautiful daughters together that solidified her role as the family matriarch.
Full of life and love, she enjoyed the many relationships and friends she gained along her countless travels around the globe as a former travel agent. As a sports enthusiast she enjoyed playing tennis, ping pong, golf, and watching baseball, especially her Philadelphia Phillies.
Additionally, Barbara enjoyed the Delaware beaches, lobster rolls and crumb cake (more crumb than cake). She was an astonishing baker, especially her blueberry pie, never from box crust, and chocolate torte. A card shark, she was an avid Rummy and Bridge player for over 50 years. Whether stepping out for groceries or attending a gala, she was always dressed to the hilt with her clothes, jewelry and lipstick!
She is preceded in death by her parents, Dr. Edward and Louise Roberts; her husband, Fred J. Hatch Jr.; son-in-law Wayne Pietkiewicz; and great-granddaughter Adaline Grace.
Barbara is survived by her five daughters, Sandra Hatch of Buena Vista, Colo., Susan Martin (Scott) of Middletown, Mary Friedman (Curt) of Las Vegas, Nev., Sharon Turner (James) of Middletown and Kathleen Daisey (William) of Lewes; grandchildren, Scotty Martin (Brooke), Stephen Friedman (Amanda), David Ryan, Shane Friedman (Amanda), Lauren Weisgerber (Ryan), Matthew Martin (Elizabeth), Jamie Turner (Allison), Taylor Horseman (Chad), Hunter Walsh, Conor Hatch and Jared Turner; her brother, Dr. Richard Roberts (Debbie) of Tenafly, N.J.; as well as several nieces, a nephew, and 11 great-grandchildren.
The family would like to send special thanks to: Delaware Hospice and the Milford Hospice House, Dr. Theordore Tan and the staff at State Street Assisted Living, Dover.
A celebration of Barbara's life will be held Saturday, March 17, at 11 a.m., at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 301 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach. The family will be receiving friends immediately following the service at the church Fellowship Hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggest contributions in Barbara's memory can be made to: Delaware Hospice, 911 South DuPont Highway, Dover, DE 19901, or Westminster Presbyterian Church, 301 King Charles Ave., Rehoboth Beach DE 19971
To send online condolences, visit daniels-hutchison.com.
