Roderick M. Hatfield

Lansing

Roderick M. Hatfield passed away peacefully at home in the presence of family on November 17, 2013, at the age of 81.

Born September 16, 1932 in Syracuse, NY, Rod was a son of the late George and Hilda (Hall) Hatfield. After graduating from McLean High School, Rod proudly served his country with the U.S. Army as a Green Beret, after which he worked the family farm until his retirement last year. He was a member of Faith Bible Fellowship Church in North Lansing and New Hope Baptist Church in Lakeland, FL, where he spent many winters. He was also active in The Gideons International.

Rod enjoyed family, life on the farm, the outdoors, and loved the land. Whether scouting deer locally or traveling the globe in search of more exotic game, he was a skilled hunter and sportsman. Rod also enjoyed the challenge of a good jigsaw, word or crossword puzzle. A practical and wise man, he implanted solid values on his children and set a good example for them to live by.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 57 years and mother of his children, Helen Geraldine Hatfield; brother, Ronald Hatfield and a granddaughter, Darlene Hatfield.

Rod is survived by his wife, Rose Swearingen Marion Hatfield; sons, Thomas Hatfield (Joyce) of Dryden, Robert Hatfield (Christina) of Lansing, David Hatfield (Abby) of Lansing; ten grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren, with one on the way, which Rod was eagerly anticipating; his siblings, Roberta Wise (Jim), Rosemary Saltsman, Roscoe Hatfield (Shirley), Roger Hatfield (Sue), Roxanna Barnum; and numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to The Gideons International, PO Box 202, Geneva, NY 14456, or the North Lansing Fire Auxiliary, c/o Irene Tyrell, 180 Sharpsteen Rd., Locke, NY 13092.

Family will be present to receive friends at Lansing Funeral Home, 32 Auburn Rd., Lansing, NY on Thursday, Nov. 21st from 2-4 and 7-9pm. A funeral service, officiated by Rev. Jason Berga, will be held at Faith Bible Fellowship Church, Rt.34, North Lansing, on Friday, Nov.22nd at 11am. Burial, with military honors, will follow at North Lansing Cemetery.