Michael Hatmaker, known to many as "Hat", passed away June 5th, 2002, of an unknown Lund Disease. He was born Jan. 5th 1959 in Anderson County, Tenn., where he resided for thirty years. Mike started training Racking Horses in the 70s. In 1978 Mike won Trainer of the Year. After these accomplishments, Mike started training Tennessee Walking Horses. In 1987 he won he "Fifth Annual Trainers Award" riding great horses such as: Mark's Bobbie Sue, Sweet & Sassy, Delights Eight Ball, Stocker's Beau, Legant, Pure Shame, and Romeo's Delight.

Mike and his wife, Marla, of 17 years owned and operated M & M Farm in Middletown, Ohio for the past 13 years. They trained and showed many Tennessee Walking Horses, and won numerous awards. Mike was considered a "Real Horseman" by many of his friends. He could ride anything and make it gait.

Mike was loved very much by many and will be dearly missed. Survisors include his wife, Marla Jo, a son, Micheal E Hatmaker Jr and wife Dawn, grandson Brandon of Fort Campbell, Ky, daughter Ashley Nicole of Middletown, Ohio. Mother and father, Mary Jo and Mirmi, three sisters and i brother all of Andersonville, Tenn., and many many close friends. Mike was buried at Red Hill Baptist Church Cemetary in Andersonville, Tenn.