June16, 1937 – December 10, 2021
at the age of 84 years
In loving memory of
Hugh Dawson Hatchard of Salmon Arm passed away on December 10, 2021 after suffering a stroke at home. Hugh was born on June 16, 1937, the second son of Burrell and Mary Hatchard, in Elk Point, Alberta. From an early age, Hugh enjoyed solitude, nature and tough sports like hockey, boxing and rodeo. He worked in northern BC and the Yukon, staking claims for mining companies, before switching to electrical work in Merritt and Fort St. John in the 60s. Hugh could fix almost anything and loved animals big and small.
In 1996, Hugh retired to the Salmon Arm area with his partner Helen, where they enjoyed many years of fun and adventures with neighbours, family and friends.
Hugh is survived by his loving partner, Helen, daughters Dawn of Kelowna and Carmen of Mile 108, as well as son Brooke. He also leaves behind one grandson, Marlon, and six step-grandchildren, as well as brothers Rex (Shelley) and Dean of McBride. Hugh was predeceased by his parents, brother Shelby, sister Roma, and infant son, Gene.
To use one of Hugh’s favourite words, on December 10, 2021 he went “padoink”. We will miss him always.
Sorry to read about Hugh’s passing. Would love to get together Helen. Please call me.
Until we meet again Dad. When you left, you took a “BIG” part of my “Heart”. So begins my journey without my Poppa. I Love You Dad. XO
It was a great ride and I am grateful for 26 years with a fun loving, clever guy ! As usual, too short!
See you tomorrow.
Helen
I still remember the first time I met Hughie. He was so nervous meeting my sisters and I he could only get out one word “Hi” and then he was gone.
There was also a time that I found it hard to think of my Mom with anyone other than my Dad. Now it’s hard to think of my Mom without Hughie.
Thanks for being my stepdad and my friend. Rest In Peace Hughie. We’ll take care of my Mom for you from here.
I met Hughie many many years ago in Fort St John. He was a friend of my moms and we all went shopping one winter to Dawson Creek. I tried on a beautiful leather jacket that I fell in love with but knew mom couldnt afford it.. Without even thinking about it Hughie bought me that jacket right then and there! I cant even explain how I felt and how I adored him for it.
Years later I reconnected with his daughter Dawn (whom I met through Hugh when she came up to visit her Dad in Fort St John) and was thrilled to know he lived close.. Dawn and I would ride our bikes out there often to visit. It made my heart so happy to see him again and remember…. the leather jacket <3 ..
Till we meet again my friend Love always and forever .. Karen Gaddy Giesbrecht
My uncle Hughys words “I can jump higher, fart louder, run faster and farther than any man I ever met”
Today the rope re gifted me helped me pull 15 cows out of a frozen dugout they had fallen in. Thanks for The right tool at just the right time Hugh.
Rest In Peace Uncle Hugh. You are really going to be missed. ❤️
Rest in peace uncle Hugh. I will remember your twinkling eyes and your crooked smile. Till we meet again……
We had a great fishing trip together a couple years ago wish we could have done more . Rip uncle Hugh