Alan Richard Hattrup

Alan Richard Hattrup, 92, of Soap Lake, Wash., died in Walla Walla, Wash., on Aug. 18, 2024.

He was born in Colton, Wash., to George and Leona Hattrup on Feb. 1, 1932, and was raised in Uniontown, Wash., alongside his two brothers, Gordon and Jack.   

Alan attended Washington State University and went on to serve in the U.S. Army. He spent his career in the agricultural industry and worked for the Bureau of Reclamation for more than 30 years.

Alan met the love of his life, Carol Clemetson, while in college. She was studying nursing at Saint Mary's Hospital School of Nursing in Walla Walla at the time, and the two had been set up on a double date. Unfortunately, it wasn't each other they were going out with. This was solved when Carol persuaded her girlfriend to switch dates with her, as the story went. They were married in 1958 in Richland, Wash., and were blessed with 59 years spent at each other's sides before Carol's passing in 2016.

Alan and Carol wasted no time starting their family, with Mike arriving in 1959 and Laurie in 1961. They spent many summers enjoying the lakes around Soap Lake, where Alan taught his children how to water ski. Along with teaching his children how to enjoy life, Alan and Carol also taught them the value of hard work and instilled in them a solid moral ethic.

Alan was a doting grandfather to his five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He is remembered as being strong, calm and gentile — always happy to get on the floor with the kids and play horsey, and able to build and fix anything. He had the coziest lap for snuggling in and was always a safe place to land.

Alan was an active member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, devoting his time and energy to strengthening his community. Through his work with the Elks, he and Carol were surrounded by close and cherished friends.

Alan will always be remembered for his calm kindness and the way he was always able to make those around him feel safe and loved. We couldn't have asked for a better father, grandfather and friend. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

Alan is preceded in death by his wife, Carol. 

He is survived by son Mike Hattrup and his wife, Chris, daughter Laurie Bohnet and her husband, Mark; grandchildren Katie Bohnet, Hailey Harwood, Henry Bohnet, Kasey Hattrup and Mackenzie Hattrup; great-grandchildren Jackson Harwood, Harper Harwood, Hattie Harwood, Ollie Bohnet Knue, Warner Bohnet Knue, Poppy Bohnet and Harrison Bohnet. 

Alan's remains are to be interred at the Washington State Veterans Cemetery in Medical Lake, Wash., where he will join his beloved wife.