John Thomas "Tom" Hatton, Sr., a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and lifelong rancher, passed away surrounded by his loving family on April 2, 2026, in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He was 84 years old.

Born on November 22, 1941, in Amarillo, Texas, to Joe and Lucy Hatton, Tom spent his early years immersed in the values of hard work and dedication that would define his life. He grew up in Colorado Springs and graduated from Cheyenne Mountain High School in 1960. A gifted athlete, Tom excelled in basketball, baseball, and tennis during his school years. He was an All-State center fielder on his high school’s State Champion baseball team and continued to shine athletically at Colorado State University in Fort Collins. While earning his degree in Animal Husbandry in 1965, Tom played on the CSU tennis team and achieved the Number 1 Singles spot during his senior year.

Tom married the love of his life, Donna Anne, on September 18, 1965. Together they built a life rooted in faith, family, and community. They were blessed with three children: Tom Jr. (Crystal), Laurie (Reese), and Joe (Kari). Tom’s legacy of love extended to his cherished grandchildren: Emma, JT, Kaylee, Joey, Brendan, and Evie; step-grandson Joshua; and step-great-grandson Ezekial. His family was the center of his world, and he took immense pride in their accomplishments.

A fourth-generation rancher, Tom dedicated his life to raising black Angus beef cattle. He found joy in the simple yet profound beauty of ranching—watching calves frolic in the springtime and seeing the striking contrast of black cattle against green pastures or snow-covered fields. For many years, he also produced some of the finest hay in Teller County. His work ethic and commitment to quality earned him respect within the agricultural community.

Tom’s talents extended far beyond ranching. A skilled athlete throughout his life, he continued playing tennis after college with remarkable success. Partnering with his brother Jim and later with his doubles partner Dave, Tom achieved a Number 1 ranking in Junior Vets Tennis across a six-state region. He also enjoyed playing softball for many years, often sharing the field with his two sons as teammates—a memory he treasured deeply.

In addition to sports, Tom had a passion for performing arts. At Donna’s encouragement, he joined community theater and embraced roles ranging from comedic characters like Polecat Pete to dramatic parts such as the Judge in *Sweeney Todd*. Later in life, Tom and Donna became a dynamic duo performing Cowboy Poetry and Music. Their artistry earned them recognition from the Academy of Western Artists with the prestigious Cowboy Poetry Album/CD of the Year award. Whether through storytelling or music, Tom delighted audiences by evoking laughter or tears with his heartfelt performances.

Tom’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior as a young boy and grew up attending First Presbyterian Church in Colorado Springs. Active in Sunday School and Young Life during his youth, Tom carried those values into adulthood as a devoted Christian who lived with honesty, kindness, and integrity.

Above all else, Tom was a family man. He was Donna’s greatest champion—her biggest fan during her singing performances—and often enjoyed private concerts as she practiced at home. He rarely missed a game or meet when his children were involved in school sports, even if it meant leaving work early on a sunny day. Watching his grandchildren excel in their athletic and musical pursuits brought him unparalleled joy.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Lucy Hatton; brothers Joe Hatton Jr. and James Hatton; but leaves behind a legacy of love through those who survive him.

John Thomas "Tom" Hatton Sr.’s life was one of purpose, passion, and devotion to those he loved most. His memory will forever be cherished by family members and friends alike who were touched by his warmth and unwavering support.

May his memory bring comfort to all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held on May 8, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM at Highview Baptist Church, 1151 Rampart Range Rd., Woodland Park, CO.  The church will provide a lasagna dinner following the service.