Walt was born in Winnipeg, his younger years were spent in Mine Centre, Ontario. Moving with the railroad to Oyama, then Hope, BC. He attended UBC for 2 years then met the love of his life, his sister Muriel’s best friend, Janet Chambers Brodie. They were married in 1961. He moved to Vancouver Island in 1963 and never looked back!
Walt leaves behind his wife Janet Hatcher; his brother Dan Hatcher (Australia); his children Bruce, Wendy (Steve), Mike and Shirley Anne; plus 6 grandchildren Josh, Austin, Megan, Tiaga, Clara and Alec; also numerous nieces and nephews.
Walt worked on the railroad in his younger years then 30+ years at Crofton Pulp and Paper “The Big Smoke”! He enjoyed volunteering as a Boy Scout Leader in the 70’s, he was a strong advocate for the “Social Credit Party” and loved an aggressive game of Bridge!
You may remember Walt under one of his many aliases “The Poison Pen”, “Chemainus Sidewalk Superintendent” and “The Duke of Duncan”. He wrote many political letters to the editor of the Newspaper, resulting in multiple heated discussions throughout the political community. Or, you might have given him a free scooter charge on one of his adventures anywhere between Duncan and Nanaimo!
Respecting his wishes Walt was cremated and a Celebration of Life will be held at a later date by his family.
Condolences may also be offered online at www.sandsduncan.ca