Shirley L. Hatch

Shirley L. Hatch of New Fairfield, CT, passed away peacefully at home on August 23, 2016 surrounded by the love of her family. Shirley was born in Portland, ME on January 29, 1945, to Clarence Raymond Nelson and Marguerite Elfie Dougall. She received her high school diploma from New Milford High School, attended secretarial school in New York at Berkley College and recently completed her Associates Degree in Science at WCSU.

Shirley leaves behind her devoted husband of 42 years, Richard Hatch; daughter Rebecca Santangeli and her husband Mike and their two daughters, Jillian and Avery of Redding; daughter Suzanne Hatch of Bridgewater; her brother Chuck Nelson and his wife Dale of Estero, FL and her brother-in-law Donald Hatch and his wife Judy of Danbury, as well as many other family and friends.

Shirley had a strong determination to live. She enjoyed her role as an administrative assistant for the Chief of Police at WCSU for the last fifteen years, prior to which she worked as a legal secretary for local law offices. Shirley’s joys included: Time spent with family and friends, sunshine, reading, tending her flowers, watching the birds and butterflies in her garden, day trips, enjoying meals out and quilting.

A service to celebrate Shirley's beautiful life will be held on Sunday, August 28, 2016 at the New Fairfield Congregational Church at 12:30 p.m. in their outdoor garden. A reception will follow in the church meeting hall.

In honor of Shirley Hatch and the wonderful care she received, donations can be sent to The Regional Hospice and Home Care Center for Comfort Care and Healing, 30 Milestone Road, Danbury, CT 06810.