Once in a generation we are blessed by a soul that makes such an impact on so many lives that we cannot find the words to describe them. Such a man was Paul R. Hatch who blessed us with a positive, enthusiastic, generous, and faith-filled life. Paul passed away on Christmas day at the age of 92, in Glendora, California.

Born October 24, 1928 in Salt Lake City, Utah to Israel Barlow and Mildred Jones Hatch, Paul spent most of his life in California. He married Dorothy Jo Lanier on May 6, 1950 - they recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary.

He graduated from Mark Keppel High School in Monterey Park, and received his Bachelor's degree in communications from Cal State University Los Angeles.

As a life-long member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, he served as a Bishop in South Gate, Arcadia and as Stake President in Glendora California. He served with his wife as a Mission President in the Iowa Des Moines Mission from 1978 to 1981. He and Dorothy also served together in the Spain Las Palmas Mission, living primarily in the Canary Islands. Their service continued as a Regional Representative for the Church in Spain, as President of the Los Angeles Temple from 2001 to 2004, later in the Spanish Initiative, in the Salt Lake City Mission, and while in their 80s, he and Dorothy served their final mission in Guatemala.

He would have said his life's work was being a missionary for the Church, however, to pay the bills he worked for Southern California Edison for fourteen years before becoming a successful entrepreneur working every day until just recently.

His sure knowledge of Jesus Christ and His mission here on earth gave Paul the understanding and firm belief of eternal families. His greatest sources of joy were Dorothy, his seven children, forty grandchildren, and seventy-five (and counting) great-grandchildren. His large office display of his family tree was a mandatory stop for all guests, repair persons, and random visitors to their home.

His zest for life, his large circle of friends and his indomitable spirit were unmatched. His faith and service in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was an example to thousands. His generosity knew no bounds. His smile and enthusiasm were a comfort and inspiration to all who knew and loved him—even to those he just met. His bright light and faith in the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be remembered and continued by all that knew him!

He is survived by his wife Dorothy, was preceded in death by his oldest son Jerry (his wife, Ruth, remarried Curtis Huntzinger), and is survived by his children Diane (Steve Nielson), Ken (Laura [deceased] and Terry), Cindy (Russ Corbett), Karen (Jeff Anderson), Ron (Becky), Kim (Michael Holmes), and his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Until we meet again, we love you Paul, Dad, Grandpa, and GG. You are in our hearts forever.

"IF YOU ACT ENTHUSIASTIC THEN YOU'LL BE ENTHUSIATIC"

Arrangements under the direction of Chapman Funeral Homes - Terry & Mary Harmon, Funeral Directors. Toll free (855) 628-0447.

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Obituary notice for Chapman Funeral Homes. Please visit www.chapmanfuneraldirectors.com .

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