Robert A. Hatch passed away May 11, 2012, at the age of 98.

Hatch was a graduate of the University of Michigan and held BS and MS degrees in geology and a doctorate in mineralogy from the school. He went on to serve as a chemist-petrographer with the research laboratories of Corning Glass Works from 1942-1947. Hatch then joined the US Bureau of Mines as a project leader of synthetic mica work at the Electrotechnical Laboratory, Norris, Tenn., and later was promoted to chief of the Synthetic Minerals Branch.

Hatch joined 3M in 1955 as senior chemical engineer at its Central Research Laboratory.

Hatch joined The American Ceramic Society and was made a Fellow of the Society in 1962. He was affiliated with ACerS’ Basic Science Division.

Hatch is survived by companion, Dorothy Newman; sons, John, George and Bill (Judith) Hatch; stepsons, Rayfield (Claudell) Wert, Jack (Bina) Wert; plus grandchildren and great-grand-children.

A memorial service was held May 19, 2012, at Parkview United Church of Christ, 3737 Bellaire Ave., White Bear Lake, Minn.

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