March 15, 1926 - March 22, 2023
Norman M Hatley, 97, passed away on March 22, 2023 in Stockton, CA at his home with family by his side.
Norman was born in Williams, OK on March 15, 1926 to Roy and Ethel (Hannah) Hatley. Norman was the 4th of 6 children. He served in the US Navy 1944-1946 working in the boiler room of a support ship in the Philippines. After he was discharged he returned home to finish high school and that’s when he met his sweetheart JoAnn. JoAnn soon moved to Tracy CA with her parents and siblings. After graduation Norman also moved to Tracy and he and JoAnn were married in April 1947. They had two children, Brock and Jackie. The family moved to Stockton in 1960 then in 1962 they moved to the country where Norman could have horses and other farm animals. Norman also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping with his young family.
In 1965 Norman joined the San Joaquin Valley Rangers becoming club President in 1971 and San Joaquin County Horsemen President in 1978. Norman spent many happy years announcing events at SJVR and other arenas throughout the area. He has enjoyed volunteering at and been a proud board member of both clubs for many years. On March 18th the newly rebuilt SJVR Announcer’s Booth was dedicated to Norman and he was able to attend.
Norman had a dairy distributorship for many years and retired in 1983. Life changed again with the birth of their grandson Clay. Norman and JoAnn loved having Clay stay over and following him as he grew into an adult.
Norman is survived by his son Brock (Ginger) Hatley, daughter Jackie (Craig) Sousa, grandson Clay Kruse, and his loving dog, Windy, who never left his side. Also, sisters-in-law Helen and Anna, and numerous nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his wife JoAnn, parents Roy and Ethel, sisters Noma, Nola, Faye, brothers Melvin, and Morris.
The family would like to thank Josh, Joni, Christy, and Goodie from Hospice of San Joaquin for their loving care and support.
Friends are invited to attend graveside services on Monday, April 3rd, 11:00 am at Cherokee Memorial Park Azalea Garden in Lodi and the reception following at the Elks Lodge, 8900 Thornton Rd, Stockton.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Hospice of San Joaquin, 3888 Pacific Ave, Stockton, CA 95204.
SERVICE
A graveside service will be held at 11:00am on Monday, April 3rd, 2023 at Cherokee Memorial Park, located off Highway 99 at Harney Lane, Lodi CA, 95240.
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Cherokee Memorial is honored to serve the Hatley family.