Bill, we will miss you! I remember the day that you played Elton John’s Bennie and the Jets for me during one of your gigs. It was shocking that you could just start playing a song and you didn’t even need the music or the words. It wasn’t even on your set list. You made me feel so special!
William George Hatfield
June 2, 1953 ~ July 25, 2026
Born in: Grayling, MI
Resided in: Gainesville, FL
Resided in: Gainesville, FL
William (Bill) George Hatfield, age 73, passed away on July 25, 2026 at Haven Hospice after a
long battle with liver disease. Bill was born on June 2, 1953 in Grayling, MI and was preceded in
death by his parents, Howard and Mae Louise Hatfield, and his brother Thomas Hatfield.
Bill led an unconventional life and was known as a charming and determined man who was “the
life of the party.” In high school he formed his first rock band—Skyblue. He was so dedicated to
his bands that he would hitchhike to gigs in distant cities. Bill was blessed with perfect pitch and
was the lead vocalist and keyboard player in several bands throughout his life until ultimately
beginning his career as a solo artist playing classic rock at local venues including the Downtown
Arts Festival in Gainesville. His 43 year marriage to his wife, Karen Lee Tuttle, began when he
sang his way into her heart while playing a local gig. They instantly fell in love and were married
four months later.
He graduated with a BS degree in history from Western Michigan University. His gregarious
personality made him an excellent choice as director of the international students’ dorm. He
graduated in 1974 and subsequently moved to Gainesville, FL in 1979 so sign with the Blade record
label. An avid reader, he was also an author and published 4 science fiction books and a 6-part
mystery series set in Key West, FL. He owned Novel Ideas, a specialty book store for science fiction
and comic book enthusiasts. Bill continued his career managing bookstores for Santa Fe College
and the University of Florida.
Bill was also an athlete. He was a cheerleader in college. In Michigan, he could be seen on the
ski slopes as a daredevil downhill racer. After moving to Florida, he began coaching and playing
softball. He was a generous and enthusiastic player and even volunteered to be the pitcher on his
sister in-law’s all women’s team since women weren’t allowed to pitch in the only league at the
time. He also coached and played for his own team, The Dead Heroes.
Passionate University of Florida football fans, Bill and Karen were known by many for Karen’s
handmade Gator beaded jewelry business, Hatfield’s Treasures. A devoted husband, Bill managed
the business and helped sell jewelry in front of the stadium regardless of the sweltering heat.
He is survived by his adoring wife of 43 years, Karen Hatfield, as well as his sisters in law, Patti
Tuttle and Caroline Pace (Gainesville, FL) and Peggy Hatfield (Grand Rapids, MI). He will be
missed by his beloved kitty Squeaky and many long-time friends including Steve Tinsley, Linda
and Rob Leutjen, Jeff and Diana Shamis, and Paula and Chuck Klice.
A memorial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to North Central Florida Humane Society.
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