James ""Jim Fredrick Hatch

James Fredrick Hatch, 77, of Scottsbluff died Monday, November 24, 2008 at his home. He’s been accepted! His ticket has been paid in full by Jesus Christ! At his request his remains have been cremated at Sunset Memorial Park Crematory. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Jim was born March 16, 1931 at Mrs. Morton’s in Mitchell, NE to Earl M. and Nellie (Newell) Hatch. When they gathered back at the ranch, big sister Helen and brother Lyle were sure this unhappy, sickly baby wasn’t theirs and begged them to return him and get the right one. He attended school close by, graduating from Mitchell High School in 1949. Later Lyle went into the Navy and Jim became the official “hired hand” for his father. Jim married “Vonie” LaVone Gable in August 3, 1952 and they lived on the ranch where two sons Jeff and Will were born. Jim loved the ranching life from calving, fencing and branding, repairing for his inventive mind to card parties, family dinners and the neighbors. He enjoyed the sunrise and sunsets, the first snow and the big hills back of the house and yodeling. Jim was involved in the Sioux County Extension Bureau, Sioux County School Board for twenty-five years, Sioux County Volunteer Fire Department, Gideon’s International and was an active board member of the Henry Bible Church. After 77 years his health deteriorated and they sold the ranch and moved to Scottsbluff. He is survived by his wife Vonie; children: Jeff and Susie (Broderick) Hatch Pinedale, WY and Will and Sarah (Buller) Hatch, Torrington, WY; grandchildren: Jolie and Blake DeLong and Tom and Carrie Hatch, Emily, Noah, Elijah and baby Madison and two great grandchildren: Shelby and Lena Hatch. He was pleased and proud of each one! Sister: Helen Spencer, Mitchell, NE; brothers-in-law: Bill and Mary Ann Gable , Scottsbluff, NE, Gary and Arlabeth Gable, Gering, NE and sisters-in-law: Rachel Gable of California and Delores Hatch, Torrington many nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death were his parents, brother Lyle and brother-in-law Ted Gable.