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The family of Henry Clifford Hatch uploaded a photo
Wednesday, August 17, 2016
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Jill Clarke posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Hello Sylvie Its been 50 years but I learned of Cliff's passing in September last year. I tried to send a message to say you were in my thoughts as I remember your courtship in Montreal and our life at Julia Drummond. I will be thinking of you on the 23rd and send my love. Jill
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Erick and Linda Lundqvist posted a condolence
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Chere Sylvie, nous sommes navres d'apprendre par Marianne le deces bien premature de Cliff. Nous ne l'avons pas vraiment connu, mais nous savons que tu l'adorais et que vous avez eu une vie heureuse ensemble. Nous t'embrassons bien fort, Erick et Linda
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Cliff Hatch posted a condolence
Monday, September 29, 2014
Words of Remembrance for Cliff Hatch, spoken at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Toronto on September 26, 2014
First of all on behalf of my family I'd like to thank everyone for attending today to celebrate the life of our father, Henry Clifford Hatch. Special thanks to Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church and Father Jim for his attentiveness to the spiritual needs of the Hatch family.
When considering my reflections and where to begin about my father, I never realized how difficult it would be to summarize all that he was and what meant to our family. He was an incredibly intelligent and accomplished man, yet at the same time very gentle, humble and witty. Beyond his degrees and professional accomplishments, he was a devoted husband for 47 years to my mother - his wife Sylvie - and was always a patient and loving father to his 3 children and doting GrandB to his 7 grandchildren. Today I'll talk about his passions, his accomplishments, his loves, and what we take away from them.
First, his passions:
He was born to Cliff and Joan Hatch and raised in Windsor, Ontario and although his career and interests took him around the world, he was a proud Canadian and carried Windsor in his heart all of his life. Growing up Cliff spent his time causing trouble, collecting birds and other animals and terrorizing his siblings and horrifying my grandmother with these finds. Although he developed a passion for fast cars and owned a few Porsches in his life, for decades he would buy nothing but North American cars out of support for the Windsor and Detroit auto industries. One of the happiest periods in his life was spent racing his sailboat Firewater on Lake St. Clair, and doing the Mackinac overnight sailing race for years with buddies from Windsor.
Dad's appreciation for nature persisted throughout his life, and he developed into an accomplished outdoorsman and ornithologist. He birded, sailed, skied, hiked and fished the world over and canoed most of the major rivers in northern Canada. He was never happier than when white water canoeing in some remote part of the North, unshaven, surrounded by mosquitos and likely pretty smelly. His very favourite thing was to go hiking (or "tramping in the woods" as he would say), and he did his very best to share his love of natural spaces with us. I'll never forget our annual frigid early-May father and son canoe trips in Algonquin Park, or our hike up the face of Mt. Washington just for the 5 minute ski down Tuckerman's Ravine -- something he had done in his youth at Harvard.
Growing up, our family spent most Sundays in Windsor at Pointe Pelee National Park, which he loved, and ironically every Mother's Day was spent at the Detroit Zoo, which he always thought was a hilarious joke. Dad's love of nature culminated with the construction of our family cottage on Lake of Bays. He relished spending time there, and would always wake up early, tap the barometer before setting off on some long morning walk, and come back with a poo report of the various animal droppings he had come across. His vast magazine collection would attest to his varied interests, and our home could easily qualify to be a national library of bird books, manuals and encyclopedia. Our mom should win an award for patience for the grace with which she endured a lifetime of walks in the woods! These were but some of his passions.
Now just a few of his professional accomplishments:
As the son and grandson of industrialists, he grew to be a well-respected businessman in his own right. Cliff attended Neuchatel Junior College then graduated from McGill University 1963 and then from Harvard Business School in 1966. He served in senior executive positions at Corby Distilleries, Hiram Walker and Allied Lyons as well as being an active board member of Speedy Muffler, the McMichael Gallery, Transat and Consolidated HCI, among others. He had a long history of volunteerism, for the United Way of Windsor and the Basilian Fathers of Toronto. He believed that education was a way out of almost any situation, and dedicated many hours teaching basic business and financial skills to youth at risk in Toronto. In my early career in South America where most English-speakers are viewed as Gringos or descended from pirates, both my father and grandfather were remembered with very high esteem, and as true gentlemen of another era.
One of his greatest traits was that despite being so successful he was also very approachable and could converse on almost any topic. His intellect, dry wit, and love of fine wine and food, made him a real renaissance man and an excellent travelling and mealtime companion. Through his example he taught us the value of being well rounded, of living balanced lives, of putting effort into expanding our own horizons, and of how important it is to treasure and cultivate relationships along the way.
Finally, a few minutes on his loves:
In 1964 while working for a summer at Courvoisier in France he met his future wife Sylvie. He was smitten at first glance. Over a year later when Sylvie came to Canada to study, he doggedly reserved every Wednesday night with her so that she couldn't insist she had other plans. In his own words he chased her until he finally let her catch him, and they were married in 1967. He told me once that he asked her to marry him because he couldn't imagine living the rest of his life without her in it. Over the decades they loved each other dearly, and have shown a commitment that surely is a model to everyone that knows them. We never saw them fight. They joked, they accepted each others' foibles, and even maintained a romantic love that lasted decades. He brought her flowers every Sunday his entire life, they shared kisses throughout the day and always held hands on walks. Much to our complete horror, they acted like newlyweds after long trips apart. She was the light of his life and a long time ago he asked her never to wear black, so it's fitting today that my mother is wearing bright colours to honour his wishes.
He doted on all of his children, always showed concern for their spouses, and dearly loved his grandchildren. During our often-crazy big Sunday night family dinners, he always made special efforts to engage everyone on topics of their interest. Though not always a man of many words, he expressed his love for us in ways that were special and very well known to us. Hiking, canoe trips and fishing with me, and taking my sisters shopping and for fancy dinners. Throughout our lives we'd receive letters from him containing copies of articles with financial or marital guidance that had appeared in something he'd read. Although not immediately clear to us as teenagers, we grew to understand that this was his way of guiding and supporting us, and telling us that he was always thinking about us. By the age of 15 I'm sure we all knew that dividend-yielding stocks were always the best investments! He was an amazing and very thoughtful confidant, a faithful guide and an inspiration.
Conclusion:
And so these and many more are the memories of Cliff Hatch we will treasure. As many of you know, the last few years of his life were not kind ones. However, I realize that I am grateful to have spent so much time with him during this last chapter of his life. I feel that it gave us all a chance to give something back to him that he was owed after a long life of taking such good care of everyone around him.
He taught us how to live, to seize life with passion and enthusiasm and to treasure special times and cherish the important people in our lives. In his passing, he also taught us about death. By his example, he made us better human beings.
We want to offer profound thanks to Cliff's constant companion, Willie Soto for his unfailing, devoted care over the last 3 years. Willie we don't know what we would have done without you all this time. You've been a genuine friend, help-mate and confidant to him - he was blessed, as we are, to have you in his life.
Thanks also to Dr. Bernie Gosevitz, Linda Betts, his sisters Mary Hatch and Gail Todgham, and brother-in-law Doug Todgham for all of their hard work and support over the past few years. Your help has been invaluable and, like Dad, you reinforced the importance of family and genuine, caring friendship.
On behalf of all of Cliff Hatch's family, thank you all for coming today and paying your respects to our father. We know that you will join us in missing him. We loved him very much and will ensure that his memory lives on.
Thank you.
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Roy W. Stevens posted a condolence
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Dear Sylvie: Beth and I were saddened to learn of Cliff's death. Our prayers and condolences are with you, your family, and Cliff as he begins his next journey. You two have lived a fascinating life, although the last few years must have been very difficult. May you go forward with courage, treasuring the full lives you spent together. Sincerely, Roy and Beth Stevens
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Amanda Moore posted a condolence
Sunday, September 28, 2014
Dear Sylvie, Aurelie, Diane and Clifford, I was so saddened to hear of Cliff's passing. Please accept my deepest condolences and know that you are all in my thoughts at this very difficult time. I have so many happy childhood memories of the many good times at the Hatch house! Take strength from remembering the happy times. Lots of love, Mandy. xo
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Dianne Moore posted a condolence
Friday, September 26, 2014
Dear Sylvie & Family, We would like to extend our deepest sympathy to you all in the loss of Cliff. We remember very well Cliff dropping Aurelie off at our house to play with Mandy when they were both young. Many happy memories of Cliff when we chatted. Dianne & Jim Moore
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María Ariza lit a candle
Thursday, September 25, 2014
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Dear Sylvie and Family,
My deepest condolences for Cliff's depart. I have the best memories of our time at Toronto having him as Guardian. He was such a great person to my sister and I and we will always be greatful for that.
Our thoughts are with you and your family during this difficult times.
Kindly,
María
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Jan & Brian Gilmer posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Dear Sylvie and family, Our deep condolences to you and your extended family for Cliff's passing this week. Our hearts are with you all during this most difficult time. with sincere sympathy, Jan & Brian Gilmer
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Bob Little posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Sylvie, Diane, Aurelia and Clifford. I was very saddened to learn of Cliff's passing this morning. Tonight as I was traveling home, I had time to reflect on the mentoring, advice and examples Cliff selflessly gave me in so many quiet, subtle ways. But most of all, I remember he reinforced how important it was to have fun and take pleasure in those serendipitous, special moments that all of us encounter but many people miss each day. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
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Guy B Reaume Jr. posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
To his family, friends and loved ones, please accept my condolences as I learn of Cliff's passing...he was 'square shooter' and a regular guy as I recall...we grew up together, boated along The Detroit River , attended Assumption HS in Windsor Ont., plus I knew his entire family...but in life, we both went our own way...may he rest in peace.
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jim stewart posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Please accept my condolences Sylvie to you and your family . I learned about Cliff's devotion to you and his family in many frank discussions over several campfires while being eaten by mosquitos . His enthusiasm for his next day of paddling coupled with his insights about current day's animal ,bird and vegetation was contagious . I will miss him
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Bryan Held posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
My very sincere condolences on your sad loss. Cliff was both a wise mentor and wonderful friend and supporter over many years. I will always remember his wisdom and wit. Sincerely, Bryan Held
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Elmer Cain posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Our condolences to Cliff's family. He was a loyal friend and a true gentleman and it was a pleasure to work for and with him. Elmer Cain, retired senior operations director Corby/Hiram Walker.
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Valerie Robillard Staudt posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
My deepest sympathy to the family. I worked with Cliff at Hiram Walker in the Market Planning Department and later when he was President. I considered him my mentor as he helped and encouraged me to get more diplomas and further my education. He will be missed. Sorry for your loss.
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Patricia Martin posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Sylvie: I read with sadness the death of your dear husband Cliff this morning. I know he and all of your family suffered his illness for a long time. Even though you mourn his loss you must take comfort knowing that he is finally at rest. My Bob worked with Cliff through Hiram Walker Resources when thy bought Consumers Gas many years ago. Bob had great respect for Cliff and for his parents. I have thought of you often over the last weeks and months and often asked after Cliff and you also through his sister Gail. Please accept my sincere condolences at this time. Pat Martin
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Michael Bliss posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
The sad news of Cliff's death brings back many happy memories of times we shared on Canoe Lake, as Taylor Statten campers, as sailors, and in the Pullman cars that we took overnight from Windsor to join the camp train in Toronto. I believe the last time we met was at the Portage Store as we were both dropping off our children at the beginning of another camp year.
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Jo-Anne St.Louis-Gignac posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Sincere condolences to the family. I will always recall with fond memories our time growing up in Riverside; Cliff was always held in high regard and will be missed. Jo-Anne
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Michael Pfaff posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
God bless his soul. A true gentleman and a loyal and steadfast friend with a great sense of humor. Mike Pfaff Camarillo California
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Bill Fellows posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Deepest sympathies to the Hatch family for your loss.Like many past and present HWSL employees, the Hatch family legacy was and still is a significant part of our lives. Having worked at HW operations in North/South America, France, and UK, I can confirm that same legacy spans continents. Please take some consolation in knowing a great many individuals are grateful for his memory. Bon courage.
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Richard & Linda Swain posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
Our deep sympathies to Sylvie and family on Cliff's passing .he has left a wonderful legacy of memories to those who had the pleasure to meet him
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Peter McCormack posted a condolence
Thursday, September 25, 2014
My deepest condolences to the entire family. Peter McCormack Windsor, ON
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Martin Jones posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Cliff was a great mentor and inspiration to us all. He opened many doors for me at Hiram Walker. Later, it was an honor to follow in his legacy at Corby. His guidance was exact and to the point. His inquisitive spirit and down to earth style made him a pleasure to work with. My deepest condolences to Sylvie and family. RIP Cliff.
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Tina Chaves posted a condolence
Wednesday, September 24, 2014
Dear Sylvie, Diane, Aurelie and Cliff Jr. please accept my utmost condolences. I can not express how sad I am to hear of dear Cliff's untimely passing. His magnanimity was unprecedented. During the years I worked with Cliff he was to me a great sage guiding both my personal and professional lives. I found his zest for life contagious. I had the highest regard for him. He was my role model and to this day I have tried to emulate my life after his. I consider myself blessed to know him and I will always cherish the years that I worked with him. God Bless you!
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Andy & Doris Hellenbart posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Andy & Doris Hellenbart made a donation to The Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases Fund - www.tgwhf.ca - Phone 416-603-6278
Sylvie: Know that Cliff was such a part of our lives for so many years. Those Mackinac races were something every year the guys could look forward to. The fact that Cliff came back every year he could was amazing. While Andy raced all those years, I had 3 races, all with Cliff as well. He had such a calming effect on the crew. He was an inspiration, both on and off the water. Will not be forgotten.
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Betty Downing and family posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Betty Downing and family made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
Our deepest sympathies to Sylvie and the entire Hatch family from Betty Downing and family.
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Linda M Hathorn posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Linda M Hathorn made a donation to The Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases Fund - www.tgwhf.ca - Phone 416-603-6278
Cliff enriched so many lives and will be missed. Cherish the memories of a most remarkable man.
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Luigi De Rose posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Luigi De Rose made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
During this difficult time I would like to extend my most heartfelt sympathies.
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Corby Spirit and Wine Limited posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Corby Spirit and Wine Limited made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
With our sincere condolences to the family.
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David Leslie posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
David Leslie made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
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Angela Ross posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Angela Ross made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
During this difficult time I would like to extend my most heartfelt sympathies.
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Jeanie, Tom and Family posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Jeanie, Tom and Family made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
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Judi and Mickey Cohen posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Judi and Mickey Cohen made a donation to The Tanz Centre for Research in Neurodegenerative Diseases Fund - www.tgwhf.ca - Phone 416-603-6278
Dear Sylvie During this difficult time, we would like to extend our most heartfelt sympathies to you and your family. It is a great loss to all of us. Judi and Mickey Cohen
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Ann & Paul posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Ann & Paul made a donation to Krembil Neuroscience Program - Toronto Western Hospital
Ann and I would like to extend our condolences. I have sailed many Mack's with Cliff and enjoyed him company immensely . He will be sadly missed.
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Bill & Sylvia Taylor posted a condolence
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Bill & Sylvia Taylor made a donation to CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) - www.camh.ca
We are very sorry to hear about your loss. From our family to yours, our most heartfelt sympathies.
