WAREHAM - Benjamin Frederick Hathaway, 62, of Wareham passed away Dec. 28, 2022, at home. He was the husband of Deborah Ann (Mitchell) Hathaway and the son of the late Joseph W. and Pauline (Evenson) Hathaway.

He was born in Wareham and lived there all his life. He graduated from Wareham High School, class of 1979 and attended Curry College.

Ben worked for Pepperidge Farms, and for many years prior he worked for J.J. Nissen in West Wareham.

Ben was a former Head Coach of Wareham High School Hockey, he founded and coached Wareham Youth Hockey and coached for Gateway Youth Hockey. He became a legendary pillar in the community, and made a positive and significant impact on the lives of many children over the years. He loved sports, especially hockey, golfing and volleyball. Most of all, he loved the simple things in life. Being with his family and spending quality time with his grandchildren brought him the most happiness. His laughter, enthusiasm and positivity was a joy to be around. Ben was a shining example of what it meant to have a truly humble heart of gold.

Survivors include his wife of 27 years, Deborah Ann (Mitchell) Hathaway; 3 sons, James B. Hathaway and his wife Charlene of Bridgewater, Michael J. Hathaway and his wife Danielle of Jacksonville, FL and Alex J. Hathaway of Wareham; 2 daughters, Erin L. Peterson and her husband Christopher of Cotuit and Samantha P. Hathaway of Altamonte Springs, FL; 2 brothers, Jeff Hathaway of Ft. Meyers, FL, Glen Hathaway of Ashburnham; a sister, Lisa Hathaway of Jacksonville; 7 grandchildren, Jack, Hazel, Aria, Olivia, Makayla, Emily and Corey. He was the stepfather of the late Lindsay Roberge and brother of the late Marla Hathaway. He also leaves several cousins, nephews, nieces and countless friends that became family.

Visiting hours are from 2 to 5 p.m. on Sunday, January 15, 2023 at Chapman Funerals and Cremations – WAREHAM, 2599 Cranberry Hwy., Wareham.

Donations in his memory may be made to a charity of your choice.