Joseph Ernest Hatch, 60, of Salem New Hampshire, peacefully passed away at his home on Wednesday November 5, 2025, after a long illness with Early-Onset Alzheimer's Disease. He was surrounded with peace, love and music by his family and friends.

Joe was born on April 4, 1965 to Faith C. (Wilson) and Paul Hatch, Sr.  He was raised in Concord, NH, began his educational journey at Dame School, followed by Concord High School. He furthered his education at Norwich University in Vermont and earned his bachelor's degree in math. Norwich University set the foundation for his diverse professional life and interests.

Joe first learned the art of sheet metal craftsmanship from his father and brothers at his father's company called Hatch Sheet Metal (formerly L.G. Hatch and Sons). Joseph became a Master sheet metal craftsman through his work at Macy Industry and later at Metro Sign and Awning. He chose to put his career on hold upon the birth of his daughter, Mikayla, in order to care for her complex medical needs and disabilities.  During this time Joe became an advocate for families and individuals who experience disabilities.  He defended their needs and rights through the Parent Information Center, and testified in front of the NH State Legislature advocating for both educational and community needs.  In Salem, NH, Joe started an educational support group for families of school age children with disabilities who were living with the challenge of maneuvering through the school system maze. After caring for his daughter, Joe became a skilled mathematician teaching math at Amesbury High School, and he taught inner city high school students at the Match Tutor Program in Lawrence, Massachusetts. His passion for teaching and helping others also led him to tutor local high school students and teach a manufacturing processes class at Nashua Community College.

Joe was introduced to the love of his life and soulmate, Karen, by his best friend Jim who, ironically, was Karen's brother. They shared an everlasting love and subsequently married. They were then blessed with the birth of their daughter Mikayla. During their lifetime of love, Joe enjoyed a variety of interests that brought joy to his life.  He was an avid and enthusiastic karaoke singer, and he loved live music concerts with friends.  He was an adventurous snowmobiler who started and led the infamous "Sled Viking Crew". Additionally, he was a passionate cook and was always eager to explore new recipes and flavors. He loved dining out with his friends and especially loved chocolate and double fudge brownie chocolate Tillamook ice cream. Please think of him when you eat it. He enjoyed weekly cigar nights with his friends, and he was known as Mr. Fix-It to his family and friends who he was always willing to help. Over the years he created beautiful metal art pieces for his daughter.

Joe is survived by his wife, Karen, of 28 years, his daughter Mikayla, his brothers Paul Hatch, Jr. (wife Diane), Jerry (wife Joan), Jon (wife Deb), his sister Christina Marden (husband Brian), sister-in-law Dawn, brothers-in-law Russell and Gerry Carney Jim Carney,  Steven and Gladys Carney, Tracy Thibodeau, Dan Carney (wife Michelle), and Stephan Bastrzycki (wife Donna), Uncle Billy and Aunt Pat,  many nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends.  In addition to his parents Paul and Faith, Joe was predeceased by his brother Robert Hatch and his infant brother Jeffrey Hatch.

During his journey with Alzheimer's, Joe continued to pass his legacy on by publicly sharing his personal story and doing an ad campaign for the State of NH. He also appeared in a video about healthy aging and caregiving for New Futures, a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization in New Hampshire that advocates for policy changes to improve the health and wellness of state residents. He provided testimony to the NH legislature, which led to additional funding for respite care. His advocacy and testimony helped build awareness of the importance of early detection of Alzheimer's and that of healthy aging. Joe's generosity extended beyond his lifetime with the donation of his brain to Brigham and Women's Donation Hub in Boston, MA to aid in finding a cure for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative brain disorders.

Joe's dedication to his craft, family, friends, country and disability community were evident in his commitment and integrity.  Joe leaves a legacy of kindness, humility, compassion and love. He was a devoted and loving husband and best friend to Karen, and a devoted father to Mikayla. Joe was a model human being and will remain in the hearts of all the lives he touched.

Joe's family would like to extend their heartfelt appreciation to the nurses and caregivers from Amedysis Hospice, Home Instead and the many caregivers from his family, friends and community who helped support Joe throughout his illness.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday November 16, 2025 from 11AM-1PM with a funeral service beginning at 1 pm at the Carrier Family Funeral Home & Crematory, 38 Range Road Windham NH 03087. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Community Crossroads of Atkinson, NH or to New Futures, 100 North Main Street Ste 400 Concord, NH.  For directions or to leave a message of condolence, please visit www.carrierfuneralhome.com.