In Memory of William J. Hatrick

Obituary

Rome – William J. Hatrick, 68, of Rome and formerly of the world at large, passed away unexpectedly on September 4, 2020 at St. Elizabeth Medical Center.

He was born November 6, 1951, in London, United Kingdom, the son of William J. and Josephine (Bartle) Hatrick. He spent his early years between London & New York but was mainly raised in Queens. After graduating from William J. Bryant High School he entered the U.S. Navy, serving for two years. After leaving the Navy, Bill resumed his education, attending Hunter College of New York. He then became a student of the world and lifelong gatherer of information; useful & otherwise. Often referred to as a literal "walking encyclopedia"; his wealth of knowledge eventually led to an audition for the television game show Jeopardy.

 Growing up in Queens, he learned the restaurant/bar business from his father who owned the prestigious Don's East Steak House on New York City's Steak Row, eventually becoming the manager. Bill joined the NYPD, where he had worked in the 100^th, 101^st, and 113^th precincts as well as NYC ESU/EMS. He retired in the early 90's after being shot while on duty.  Prior to joining the NYPD, Bill had volunteered for the Jackson Heights Volunteer Ambulance Corps from 1975-1979. Bill became a licensed EMT in 1976 and Paramedic in 1987. He saved countless lives during his time as a paramedic and safely delivered over 200 babies into this world. He also received several commendations while on the job. In the early 80's he provided security for the now defunct Mardi Gras night club in Mid-town New York while off duty. Other jobs of note included Marie Callender's in AZ, Harvey's Wagon Wheel Casino in Central City CO, Agilent Technologies in Spokane WA, Central New York Neurosciences in New Hartford NY, Club 21 at Turning Stone Casino Verona NY. He worked as a residential Realtor/Mortgage Broker in Las Vegas, California, and New York for several years before returning to his roots and ending his working years as a security guard for Munson Williams Proctor Arts Institute, Utica, NY.

Bill had several interests and hobbies. He had a lifelong relationship with fitness. In his younger years he played schoolyard football. He started weightlifting in his teenage years and continued to do so throughout his life. He was both honored and humbled to study martial arts under world renowned Master Cho (a 9th degree black belt) starting in the mid 1970's, earning his own black belt in Taekwondo by 1980. In 1979, he entered (and won) the US Amateur Open Eastern Division for Yellow Belt. Bill was also a talented hockey player, which led to him being drafted by at least two NHL Hockey teams. Unfortunately, injuries prevented them from actually signing him. Boxing was yet another discipline that he participated in. He had several amateur bouts as well as competing in the NY Golden Gloves. This was also a lifelong interest as he helped with training some local boxers in Rome NY. Less strenuous hobbies included world travel, listening to music, and film/movies. The Beatles were a favorite and even once saw Elvis in concert. In keeping with his thirst for learning he once taught himself to play the pedal steel guitar, becoming quite proficient. He was also well versed in the steel drums. His knowledge of film history was quite extensive (as well as his personal classic movie collection) so much so that friends would often call to ask obscure questions about movies/actors because they knew that Bill would have the answer. World travel was something he finally had time for. Recent trips included France, Scotland, England, and the Cayman Islands. Paris and Edinburgh were favorite cities of note. 

Out of everything in the roller coaster ride that was Bill's life, he was most proud of all his children and their accomplishments. Born three months premature and stubborn to boot, a fighter until the end, even telling Frank to cancel the ambulance because, in his own words, “I’m fine and I don’t need it.” That was our Bill.

Survivors include his life partner and greatest love, Andrea Bettinger-Hatrick; sons Christopher Hatrick and Brendan Hatrick (Jhamila); daughters Kiersten Hatrick (fiancé Jeremiah MacGaffick), Juliana Lombardo, Angela Caridi (Joey), and Christine Hatrick; grandchildren Kristen Bradshaw, Nicholas Caridi, Marianna Caridi, Gina Caridi, Breanna Ryder, and Oden Ward; stepson Gilbert Ringel; Adam Bettinger, Alyssa Dowd, Noah Sheroff and Patrick Costello IV, to all of whom Bill was a father figure; four brothers, Douglas, John, Scott and Wayne Krut; several nieces and nephews; former wives Linda Negri and Irene Ringel, and separated wife Colette Korry Hatrick; very dear family friends Dr. Frank H. Boehm, Jr. and Janice Stone, Miss Lilianna Stone, Kelly Karavites, Dr. John MacGaffick and MaryArinna MacGaffick, and Todd Cramer; and canine and feline buddies Chanel, Balto, Pecan and Smudgie. In addition to his parents, Bill was predeceased by a son, Sean Hatrick, a sister, Stephanie Krut, and a loyal German Shepherd, Sabre.

In accordance with Bill’s wishes, there are no public calling hours. Due to current COVID-19 restrictions, services and a celebration of Bill’s life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are with Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral and Cremation Service, 13 Oxford Road, New Hartford, NY 13413. Online messages of sympathy may be left at www.fwefh.com.