HURON — Donald Ray Hatton, 88, of Huron, passed away on Saturday, November 20, 2021.
Donald, the son of Brad and Lillian Hatton, was born March 27, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois. Together with his beloved sister, Elaine, Don was raised in Chicago, Illinois and moved to California as a young boy. It was in high school in California where he met his future bride, Jean Rae.
Don married Jean Rae Nelson on October 16, 1953, in Jacksonville, Fla. Throughout their life together, the couple enjoyed moving throughout the country, living in Huron, (Jean Rae’s hometown), California, Florida and Arizona before returning to Huron in 2011. Together, they raised their children, Scott and Debby, and through the years were graced by the love of their beautiful grandchildren, Kasi, Chelsea, Tara, Kelly and Scotty and great-grandchild, James.
Donald was a proud Marine Corps Veteran, serving in the Korean War. He worked in the aerospace industry throughout his career, and in his later years, worked at the Huron water plant.
Throughout his life, Don was a car enthusiast and passed on that passion to his son, grandson and great grandson. Donald enjoyed his many camping trips in the Sierras with his family. Together with Jean Rae and his sister, Elaine, and brother-in-law, Jim, he enjoyed teaching their children the love of the outdoors.
He will forever be cherished by his brother-in-law, Jim Brunk of Lincoln, Calif.; his son, Scott (Kelly) Hatton of Ojai, Calif.; his daughter, Debby (Reginald) of Rocky Mount, Va.; his dear grandchildren and great-grandchild; his niece, Barb (Pete); his many close cousins and lifelong friends; as well as his new neighbors who have shown great care and friendship.
Don, a man of independence and no-fuss, preferred to withgo a service. His ashes will become part of Huron in time, staying nearby his beloved Jean Rae.
