Douglas William Hatcher Jr. Obituary

Douglas William Hatcher Jr., age 77, passed away on March 10, 2026, in Farmington, Michigan. He was born on March 16, 1948, in Detroit, Michigan, to Douglas W. Hatcher Sr. and Florence J. Hushin.

Doug lived a life defined by dedication to family, community, and helping others. A proud member of Meadowbrook Congregational Church and during his employment at the YMCA, he was deeply involved in his community and always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. Known for his strong work ethic and generous spirit, Doug was the kind of person who could fix almost anything. He had a wealth of knowledge in woodworking, plumbing, electrical work, yardwork, and countless other practical skills, and he was always happy to share that knowledge with others.

Doug pursued his education by earning a Liberal Arts degree at Wayne State University, where he was a proud member of the Alpha Sigma Phi fraternity, as well as graduate work in Economics at Eastern Michigan University. Throughout his life he remained curious and intellectually engaged, with a love for reading that included science fiction, murder mysteries, outer space, and so much more.

An enthusiastic sports lover, Doug especially enjoyed ice skating and skiing. He also had a lifelong passion for bike riding and could often be found on his bicycle whenever the weather allowed, or even when it didn't. Some of his most cherished moments were spent relaxing by the pool and making memories with his beloved granddaughter, Evi.

Doug had a deep love for all dogs, especially the family poodles Chloe and Chanel.

Doug was preceded in death by his father, Douglas W. Hatcher Sr.; his mother, Florence J. Hushin; and his son, Kurt W. Hatcher. He is survived by his loving wife of 55 years, Susan; his daughter, Erika; his sister, Susan (Bruce) Hagar; his brother-in-law, Robert Collins; his granddaughter, Eviana; his niece, Katherine (Scotty); his nephews, Billy (Amy), Jon, Michael (Dasha), and Ryan (Erin); and many more beloved family members.

Doug's legacy of compassion, curiosity, community, and devotion to family will live on in the many lives he touched.

In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Meadowbrook Congregational Church in Novi.