Daniel Lee Hatch's Obituary
In Loving Memory of Daniel Lee Hatch
February 15, 1960 – July 12, 2025
With heavy hearts and deep love, we announce the passing of Daniel Lee Hatch on July 12, 2025 at his home in Tacoma, Washington. Surrounded by his devoted family, Dan peacefully graduated to the next phase of his eternal journey after a courageous, years-long battle with health complications.
Born on February 15, 1960 in Twin Falls, Idaho to Tom and Bernice McCune Hatch, Dan lived a life rich in purpose, passion, and joy. From a young age, he had a flair for the dramatic—his love for acting and singing was unmistakable. His talent shone brightly in his unforgettable performance as Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof at Ricks College. He never stopped singing, often belting out tunes with gusto and joy for all to hear!
Dan served faithfully in the LDS Padova, Italy Mission from 1979 to 1981, where he shared his testimony with warmth and sincerity. He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Acting from BYU in 1985, a fitting degree for someone who brought so much life to every room he entered.
But Dan’s greatest role was that of devoted and loving husband and father. He married his eternal sweetheart, Sharon Gaynor, in the Idaho Falls Temple on August 24, 1985. Their nearly 40-year marriage was a testament to enduring love, mutual devotion, and unwavering support. Together, they raised four incredible sons: Travis, Trevor, Ransom, and Chandler, who carry forward his legacy of creativity, humor, strength, and kindness.
Dan’s career path took him from managing at KB Toys to a long and successful tenure at The Home Depot, where he worked for 22 years. He and Sharon made homes in Utah and San Jose, CA, before settling in Tacoma, WA in 1992.
A true family man, Dan found joy in the simple things: scouting trips with his boys, the peaceful crackle of the flames of a bonfire, and whipping up something delicious—or at least interesting—for his family to try. His laughter was contagious, his hugs were healing, and his love was fierce—especially for Sharon, whom he cared for tenderly even in his most difficult days.
Even in times of trial, Dan remained a beacon of optimism and faith. He was always ready with a joke, a story, or a heartfelt testimony of God’s plan. His faith in his Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ never wavered, and he honored them in all he did. His resilience, testimony and encouragement inspired all who knew him.
Dan was known for his quick wit, big heart, and even bigger personality. He was a beloved brother, a loyal friend, and a guiding light to his family. Though his passing feels untimely, we take comfort in knowing he is now free from pain, reunited with loved ones, and helping prepare a joyful reunion for us all in the life to come.
He is preceded in death by his loving parents, Tom and Bernice. He is survived by his cherished wife Sharon; his sons Travis (Jessica), Trevor, Ransom (Julia), and Chandler; his five treasured grandchildren: Thomas, Felix, Chip, Indie, and Finn; his mother-in-law Jan Gaynor; sister-in-law Laura (Steve) Chidester; and his eight siblings: Thomas E. (Terri), Kara (Tracy), Jason (Cathy), Krista (Matthew), Connie (Eddie), James (Jennifer), Lee (Daniella), and Michael (Calli).
Dan’s life was a gift to all who knew him. Though we mourn his loss, we celebrate the joy, laughter, and love he brought into our lives. Until we meet again, dear Danny boy. We love you so!
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, July 19th at 12:00 p.m. at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints meetinghouse at 1102 South Pearl Street in Tacoma, Washington. The family will meet with friends at a viewing prior to the funeral from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Interment will be at the Mountain View Cemetery, Lakewood, Washington at 2:30 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Daniel's Life and Legacy gofundme (https://gofund.me/84c24f5f) in memory of Dan to help Sharon with expenses associated with his passing.
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