Michael Hatz
Age - 72
December 1, 2023
Michael Walker Hatz, affectionately known as "Big Mike," was born on Saturday, November 3, 1951, in Lancaster, PA, and passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 22, 2023. Mike was a gentle, loving, and generous man, known for his great work ethic and peaceful, calming demeanor. His life was characterized by a deep commitment to his family, his students, and his passions. Mike was preceded in death by his parents, Jack W. and Marian (Stehman) Hatz and by his loving wife Sharon Lee (Kemp) Hatz. He leaves behind a loving family that includes his daughter, Kimberly A. Law-Brydon and her husband Chris Brydon of Enola, PA, and his son Michael D. Law and his wife Nancy Carty of Erie, PA. He was the proud grandfather to Alex G. Law of Erie, PA. Mike is also survived by his brother Alan Hatz, his in-laws Vicky and Harry Bowker of Manchester, NY, and several nieces and nephew. A proud alumnus of Messiah College, where he earned his bachelor's degree, Mike dedicated his professional life to the nurturing of young minds. He spent a remarkable 47 years as a kindergarten teacher, beginning his career at St. Mark's Evangelical Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg. He then spent 20 fruitful years at St. Paul's United Church of Christ before retiring from the Mechanicsburg Learning Center. In addition to his teaching duties, Mike served as the church sexton at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, further testament to his dedication to his community. Mike had an array of interests that added richness to his life. He was an avid sports enthusiast who enjoyed volleyball, basketball, and bicycling long distances. He was a regular at the Alpha Racket Club, where he enjoyed competitive games of racquetball. Mike had a unique fascination with clocks, collecting them and meticulously synchronizing their chimes to ring simultaneously, especially at midnight on Christmas Eve. This charming tradition brought joy and anticipation to many holiday celebrations although his wife Sharon was not exactly thrilled. A devoted fan of college basketball, Mike found particular joy in watching Duke basketball games. His love for music was equally profound, with the Beatles and 60's music holding a special place in his heart. These interests, combined with his loving nature, created a man who was as interesting as he was kind. Mike Hatz was a man of great gentleness, love, and generosity. He enriched the lives of his many students and of those around him, His life was a testament to the power of dedication, love, and kindness, and he will be deeply missed. Private memorial services will be held at the convenience of the family. Mike will be laid to rest with his wife Sharon at St. Paul's United Church of Christ Columbarium in Mechanicsburg. As an expression of sympathy and in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in memory of Michael Hatz may be made to the Prostate Cancer Foundation, 1250 Fourth Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 or by visiting www. pcf. orgShow more
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