Richard “Dick” B. Hatfield, of Rolla, MO, passed away Friday, November 29, 2024, at the age of 85.

He was born on October 31, 1939 in Omaha, NE to the late Carl Malcolm and Gladys Irene (Gaskill) Hatfield. Richard married Darla Fay Jones on September 9, 2005.

Dick received an associate degree from Northern State Teacher’s College, Aberdeen, South Dakota in 1960. After completing his associate degree, he attended the Minneapolis School of art from 1960 to 1962.

Richard Hatfield served in the United States Army from October 22, 1962 through October 21, 1965. His primary military job was as an Illustrator. During his military career, he earned the Sharpshooter Rifle M-1 and M-14, Expert Carbine, and the Good Conduct Medal.

After serving in the military, Dick worked in the mapping department at the CIA, where he contributed to important projects. He later transitioned to a career at the University of Vermont, bringing his expertise to the institution. In time, he relocated to Rolla to work for the University of Missouri-Rolla (UMR), where he dedicated many years of service. Dick retired in 2001, leaving behind a legacy of hard work and commitment to the institutions he served.

Dick was a man whose life was defined by deep connections with those around him. From a young age, he sang in the choir, a testament to the strong faith in God that guided him throughout his life. As a nature enthusiast, Dick expressed his love for the outdoors through photography, capturing the beauty of the world around him. His breathtaking photographs were proudly displayed, many blown up for all to admire. Later in life, Dick developed a love for bluegrass music and learned to play the banjo. He enjoyed performing with local musicians and sharing his joy of music. His friendships were also deeply meaningful—he maintained a lifelong bond with two army buddies, a testament to the enduring power of camaraderie. As a teenager, Dick learned to water ski and became highly skilled, enjoying countless hours on the water. He enjoyed hunting, especially waterfowl, spending many hours in the outdoors. Whether behind the lens, strumming his banjo, or enjoying the tranquility of a boat ride, Dick lived a life full of faith and friendship, leaving a legacy that will never be forgotten.

Dick will be greatly missed by his surviving family which includes: his wife, Darla Hatfield of Rolla, MO; brother-in-law, Dean E. Jones of Bourbon, MO; sister-in-law, Linda Inskip and husband Charles of Rolla, MO; nieces and nephews, Heath Inskip, Nathan Inskip, Corey Inskip, Levi Jones; and cousins Tim Hatfield, David Gaskill, and Gayle Schaefer.

A funeral service for Richard B. Hatfield will be conducted at 12 p.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Null and Son Funeral Home in Rolla. Interment will follow in the Rolla City Cemetery. A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions are suggested to the Disabled American Veterans (Meramec Valley Chapter 65, P.O. Box 747, Cuba, MO 65453).