John Milton Hiatt

John Milton Hiatt

John Milton Hiatt was 83 years old when he passed away on January 4, 2026, from complications of a fall. He left behind a legacy of love, kindness, and quiet strength. He was known by those who knew him as a man who valued family, friendship, the Gospel of Jesus Christ and lived with integrity.

John was born in May 1942 in Joplin, Missouri to Jack and Zelma Hiatt.  He was the eldest of seven children. Throughout his life, John touched many lives through his presence, his compassion, and the way he showed up for others. He served a 2-year mission in the Eastern States for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.  When he returned, John was drafted in the US Army as an Operating Room Technician at Walter Reed Hospital. John met and married Nancy Schriever in Buck Valley, Pennsylvania in 1964. They later welcomed 3 children, Cheryl, John, and Theresa. They moved from the east to the west and resided in the Denver north area. As a lifelong member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints he accepted many callings to serve, ie, Seminary Teacher, Stake and Ward Presidencies, Bishoprics, and Primary. John had a way of making people feel welcome and valued, and his memory will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

John loved the outdoors! He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping, shooting, woodworking, bird watching, photography, drawing and art.  He was a magnificent storyteller, entertaining his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Dedicated to providing for his family he worked endlessly to make sure their needs were met. He worked several jobs, and he excelled most being a plant engineer in Denver. He endured many health issues and surgical procedures that brought him to retirement in his early 50s.

John’s life was defined not only by what he accomplished, but by who he was — a steady, caring individual whose influence will be felt for years to come with a great sense of humor. He leaves behind cherished memories that will continue to bring comfort and reflection.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Ephriam Hiatt and Zelma Lee Tomlinson Thomas, brothers Tom Hiatt and Larry Hiatt, sister Paula Hiatt.

John is survived by his loving wife, Nancy Lee Hiatt (Schriever); daughter, Cheryl Cottam (Stan); son John Hiatt (Angela); and daughter, Theresa Ewing (Jeff).  Brother Ken Hiatt, sisters Deborah Levy Clark and Jamie Hiatt. 8 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren with additional one on the way in March.

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