His college education was interrupted after his sophomore year by WWII and service in the Army Signal Corp, where he reached the rank of Sergeant. Among other places, he was stationed at Camp Crowder, Mo., where he met his future wife. He was later stationed in New Guinea and was a member of the Occupation Forces in Japan. At the war’s end, he returned to college and in June 1948, graduated from the University of Maine, Orono. He was licensed as a professional engineer, land surveyor, and water systems operator.
On June 30, 1948, Harland married the love of his life, Dorothy Meyer of Stark City, Mo. After a year in Houlton, they settled in Bowdoin where they raised three children. Harland was employed as a civil engineer by the city of Lewiston, retiring as City Engineer in 1985. Harland served his community in different capacities, acting as Moderator at Bowdoin town meetings for over 25 years, serving several terms on the school board, and holding various offices for the Hix-Small Cemetery Association. He also taught Sunday School and was a deacon in his church. His greatest joys were in serving and giving to others. In his younger years he could often be found using his tractor to mow hay, haul or saw wood, or plow for family and friends.
Harland was predeceased by his parents, Oscar and Elizabeth Hatch, and by two brothers, Freeman and Walton Hatch. He is survived by his wife of over 65 years, Dorothy Hatch, by children, Stephen Hatch and wife SonYe of Augusta, David Hatch, and Gwenda Hatch, both of Bowdoin, a sister Constance Carver of Leesburg, Fla., sisters- and brothers in-law, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Instead of flowers, the family requests donations to Bowdoin Fire and Rescue, 10 Cornish Drive, Bowdoin, ME 04287 or CHANS Home Health Care, 60 Baribeau Drive, Brunswick, ME 04011. Please visit www.brackettfuneralhome.com to leave a message of condolence for the family.
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