Diane F. Hatch, 92, of Dowagiac, a cherished matriarch and beacon of love and kindness, passed away peacefully of natural causes on August 8, 2025, in Niles, Michigan. Born in Dowagiac, Michigan, on December 12, 1932, to Morgan A. and Verna (Hunsberger) Greenwood, she grew up to embody the values of family, faith, and community that were instilled in her from a young age.
Diane’s life was marked by her enduring love story with Bernard Lee Hatch, whom she married on February 23, 1952. Their partnership was a testament to devotion and mutual respect, creating a family legacy that would be her pride and joy. Sadly, Diane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bernard; her daughter, Mary Hatch; her son, Rodney “Rod” Hatch; her brothers, Larry and Greg Greenwood; and her sister, Mary Criswell.
She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Penny (Roger) Elliott of Dowagiac; three sons, Mark Hatch of Idlewood, Michigan, Kim Hatch of Dowagiac, and Brent (Shannon) Hatch of Dowagiac. Diane was a cherished grandmother to five grandchildren, Aaron Hatch, Nicole (Ben) Karn, Zachary Hatch, Grant (Morgan) Hatch, and Rachel Hatch, and a doting great-grandmother to six great-grandchildren, Brian, Adrian, Roman, and Cameron. She is also survived by her siblings, Virgil (Joyce) Greenwood, James (Carolyn) Greenwood, Lorna Suits, Andrea (James) Klett, and Douglas Greenwood, all of whom will miss her deeply, along with her many nieces and nephews.
A proud alumna of Dowagiac Union High School, class of 1951, Diane’s education laid the foundation for her various professional endeavors. She was a remarkable homemaker, dedicating most of her life to nurturing and caring for her family. Diane’s time in the workforce saw her at Simplicity Pattern Company and later managing the Holiday Inn in Niles. For many years, she was a familiar and friendly face at Old Tavern Inn, where she welcomed patrons with her warm smile and genuine hospitality.
Diane’s passions were as varied as they were rich. She was an avid reader, always with a book at hand, and an excellent cook, renowned for her fried chicken and beef and noodles. Her baking skills were legendary, especially her special birthday cakes made with love for each family member. Diane also found joy in dancing and singing, hobbies that reflected her spirited and joyful nature. A lover of nature, she spent countless hours bird watching and adorning her home with bird figurines. The holidays were a particularly special time for Diane, as they brought together her two greatest loves: family and festive celebration.
Those who knew Diane would describe her as loving, kind, and selfless. She had a gift for making everyone feel special and valued, and her absence will leave an immeasurable void in the lives of those she touched.
Memorial contributions may be made in Diane’s memory to Caring Circle Hospice at 4025 Health Park Lane, St. Joseph, Michigan 49085.
A memorial service to celebrate Diane’s life will be held on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at Brown Funeral Home in Niles with a time of visitation to begin at 11:00 a.m. A private interment will be held at Mission Hills Memorial Gardens.
Memories of Diane may be left for her family at www.BrownFuneralHomeNiles.com.
Diane F. Hatch lived a life that was full, meaningful, and centered on the people she loved. Her memory will be treasured, and her legacy of kindness and compassion will continue to inspire all who knew her. As we bid farewell to this extraordinary woman, we celebrate the profound impact she had on our lives and the immeasurable love she gave so freely.
Posted On: Monday, August 11, 2025 9:58 AM
