Paul A. Hatch passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, August 29th. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Hope Heaven Hatch and his children, Jen Beck (Chris) and Jeff Hatch (Lauren); five beautiful grandchildren, Alex, Abby, Hannah, Isabella, and Charlotte; and his niece, Stacey Harrison.

Paul was born in Providence, RI, in 1950. He was the younger of two boys. His family moved to Virginia in 1965 where he met Hope in homeroom class at Annandale High School. They were together ever since. In 1968, he went to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY, to study geology. After two years, he came home to help his parents who were struggling with their health. Paul was drafted into the Army during the Vietnam era and spent time at Ft Devens, Ft Dix, and finally at NSA in MD. He was first introduced to computers while at NSA.  Although we never knew what he did there, we do know that his security clearances were extensive which allowed him to be active in foreign satellite programming. He ended his career as the Director of Operations for Computer Sciences Corporation.

Paul was blessed to have valuable time with his family.  His greatest joy came from supporting his children's endeavors. He spent many years driving Jen and her horse to horse shows and competitions; making saddle stands for St. Margaret's Pony Club, and being an active parent in all her undertakings. Jeff loved sports which meant basketball, soccer, tennis, swimming, and football.  One summer he did remote control cars with Jeff and Hope was the pit crew. Wonderful memories!

Paul was active in Our Lady of the Fields Catholic Church in Millersville, Md. He was a Eucharistic minister as well as the President of the Pastoral Council.  Paul and Hope completed their cursillo weekends in 1997. He was a loving, intelligent man with a huge heart. His crowning achievement was his family.

A private, graveside service will be held for his family.

Memorial contributions can be made to the ministry founded by Paul's daughter, Risen Ridge Ministry.

Online: www.risenridge.org or by mail PO Box 442, Stuarts Draft, VA 24477