Joe Oscar Hatfield, Jr.
“Here was a man.“
It is with extraordinary sadness that we acknowledge the passing of a magnanimous man. Joe “Papa” Hatfield, Jr., the patriarch, left this world on March 26th in the arms of his family. He delighted us until the very end with his songs, stories, and incredibly lively conversation—he was our shining light.
Born in Saint Louis on February 16th, 1940, to humble beginnings, Joe lifted himself out with drive and determination. He met the love of his life early and went on to build a company, a family, and a beautiful life full of infectious laughter, hard work, great rewards—all with an unbridled passion for his extremely close family. In 1974, he founded Plumbing Engineers, Inc. and for 58 years made a very successful life as a Local #562 Master Plumber and Drainlayer. The company continues to thrive under his son with the help of his son-in-law. In 1993, he built Eagle Point, the family’s Indian Hills Lake retreat and space dedicated to the mission of keeping his family together; “if you build it, they will come“ was his motto and it worked brilliantly. Eagle Point will live on as a center point for all future generations of his family.
Joe was passionate about being present at all times for his family and was the most devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother, uncle, friend, mentor, advisor, and future great-grandfather. He will be sorely missed by his best friend and bride of 61 years—the love of his life Marie (née Gabel). He is also survived by his grieving children Deborah (Scott) Robertson (née Hatfield), Joe (Lynn) Hatfield III, Susan (Tim) Besch (née Hatfield), and Victoria Hatfield; and his fiercely devoted grandchildren Lacey, Courtney, Luke, Holly (Brendan), Zachariah, Samuel, Grant, Grace, Joel, and Anna; also he leaves his sister Tina Grubbs (née Hatfield). He is predeceased by his grandson Timothy “TJ”Justin. Although a very private man, Joe‘s humor, magnetism, charm, and unique personality had such an incredible effect on everyone he touched—how blessed are we that we shared his life.
Joe Hatfield, Jr. will be celebrated on Monday, April 1st in the Chapel of Kutis Funeral Home, 10151 Gravois Road, 63123. The family invites guests to arrive at 11:00am, with a service to begin at 12:00pm. Following this, a graveside ceremony will take place at Resurrection Cemetery at 6901 MacKenzie Road, 63123.
Preserving the lake that he loved so dearly was of utmost importance to Joe. Indian Hills developed a Lake Restoration Fund to support the ongoing health of this body of water. In lieu of flowers, if so desired, donations can be mailed to Lake Restoration, PO Box 800, Cuba, MO 65453 and directed to the Hatfield Memorial Fund.
Hey Joe, you will be missed. I’ll always remember the delicious meals Debbie made for somebodies birthday and all we could do was laugh at your FUNNY stories. Greg and I loved being with you and your wonderful wife, Marie. I’m sure your memory will live on with your loving , special family.
Sometimes we are fortunate enough to be blessed with very special people in our lives that leave a lasting impact of love, generosity, laughs and their footprints on our hearts forever. Dearest Mr. Hatfield (“Big Joe”) is definitely one of those people. A devoted family man that was wonderful beyond measure to so many others. We are truly grateful for our time together and send our love and deepest sympathy.
Big Joe and Marie became my band parents 40+ years ago and I knew on day one they were special people. Joe’s sense of sarcastic humor was right up my alley and he could dish it out as well as anybody. Big Joe was so generous to our fledgling band and I have no doubt dug into his own pockets in the early days so the musicians could all get paid something. The fierce love he displayed for his family was something to be cherished. That tradition of family love is now an obvious part of his children and grandchildren and will be his legacy for generations to come. Rest in God’s presence Joe – we’ll be coming to meet you again someday.
The Hatfield Family
I will always have wonderful memories of visiting the lake. Big Joe was so generous and made sure each of us had a great at your home. His entire family welcomed so many people and it is sincerely appreciated!
Joe is with the Lord now and if there are pontoon boats in heaven, I think that’s where he can be found. I pray the Lord gives the Hatfield family strength in your time of sorrow, my thoughts and prayers are with you all.