This is a Message Board Post that is gatewayed to this mailing list. Author: marysday Surnames: Hatch, Mendenhall, Frey, Classification: obituary Message Board URL: http://boards.rootsweb.com/localities.northam.usa.states.oregon.counties.lincoln/5367/mb.ashx Message Board Post: The News Times Newport, OR Posted: Wednesday, Apr 21st, 2010 Kenneth M. Hatch Kenneth M. Hatch, 87, of Newport, Ore. died April 18, 2010 at his home. He was born Oct. 16, 1922 to Nick K. Hatch and Hattie M. Hatch in Unalaska, Alaska. When he was five, he moved to Florence, Ore., where he attended grade school and high school. He entered Oregon State College in 1940, where his ROTC unit was called to active duty in 1943. While in the service, he was selected to attend the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he graduated in 1947. During an Army career, he obtained an MS Degree in civil engineering from the California Institute of Technology. He also participated in the Korean War, where he was awarded a Silver Star, a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, and other decorations. During the Vietnam War, he commanded an engineer construction group in Thailand, where he received the Legion of Merit. He retired from the service in 1970 as a full colonel and worked in Eugene as a professional engineer until 1981. He married Althea Mendenhall of Summit, N.J. in 1949, and they enjoyed raising a family of four children. He moved to Newport in 1985, where in retirement, he enjoyed boating, fishing and woodcarving. At various times, he volunteered at the Hatfield Marine Science Center, at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Oregon Coast Community College and as a driver for Meals-on-Wheels. He was a member of the American Legion, the Retired Officers of the Emerald Empire and the Army Engineer Association. He was preceded in death by his oldest son, Herbert; and by his wife of over 50 years, Althea Hatch. He is survived by his son, David Hatch, of Portland, Ore.; son, Keith Hatch, of Ridgefield, Wash.; daughter, Aileen Frey, of Eagle, Idaho; and six grandchildren. No service is planned. His remains will be cremated, and his ashes will placed at sea. Bateman Funeral Home in Newport is handling arrangements. Important Note: The author of this message may not be subscribed to this list. If you would like to reply to them, please click on the Message Board URL link above and respond on the board.