John Edward McHatton, a beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, passed away on Feb. 10, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on Jan. 1, 1936, to John and Helen McHatton at the Conway Hospital in Elma, he was the first baby born there that year, marking the beginning of a lifetime filled with love, hard work, and adventure. He was preceded in death by his wife of 66 years, Jeanette McHatton.

John was the youngest of six siblings: Patty Muirhead, Delores Mooney, Alice Rasp, Eileen McHatton, and Teresa Murphy. A proud member of Elma High School athletics, John competed in football, basketball, and track. John was a key figure on the Elma High School Basketball Team and was later inducted alongside his teammates into the Elma High School Athletics Hall of Fame. His love for sports continued at Grays Harbor College, where he earned a basketball scholarship. After attending college, John went to work for the Simpson Door Plant, retiring in 1997 after 42 years of dedicated service.

John married his wife Jeanette on April 28, 1956, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Elma Together they raised three children: Mike (Erin), Sandy (Dale), and Teri (Tom). His legacy lives on through his seven grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

John was an avid outdoorsman. He spent countless hours enjoying the beauty of nature, whether it was camping on his property at Decker Creek, hunting, fishing, or clam digging. His love for wildlife was evident, as he cared for a pet crow and a raccoon that he cherished deeply. His home in Elma was always well-kept, reflecting his pride in his surroundings.

John was also a talented woodworker and artist, earning championship ribbons at the Grays Harbor County Fair for his exquisite woodworking creations. His artistic spirit extended to his love of gardening and craftsmanship, both of which brought him great joy throughout his life.

A devoted sports fan, John was a dedicated supporter of the Seattle Mariners and the Washington State Cougars. His enthusiasm for these teams was infectious, and he was always ready to cheer them on. As devoted as he was to those teams, he was an even bigger fan of his grandchildren and great-grandchildren’s athletic and academic competitions. John and Jeanette would drive to the ends of the earth to cheer them on!

John’s life was defined by his love for his family, his passion for the outdoors, and his creative spirit. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him, but his memory will live on through the countless stories and the love he shared with those around him.

A private family service will be held to honor his life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to a charity of your choice in his memory.