Tributes flow for Shepparton’s Craig Hatton after unexpected death

A well-known Shepparton character is being remembered as the ‘life of the party’ by friends and family after his sudden death on Easter Monday.

Tributes are flowing for Craig Hutton, a well-known Shepparton man who suddenly died on Easter Monday. Picture: Contributed

A well-known Shepparton man is being remembered as the “life of the party” after his sudden death on Easter Monday.

Craig Hatton, 53, died unexpectedly in his sleep and his family are hoping to give him a good send off.

His sister Katrina Penfold said he was the “heart of our family in many ways”.

People across Shepparton will know Mr Hatton from his sporting involvements, particularly in cricket and football circles.

He was a support worker at Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative, working with elderly members of the community.

Ms Penfold said Mr Hatton was well known as “Tank”, “Bushy”, “Gug” and “Hatto”.

Craig Hutton with his grandson Ayden. Picture: Contributed

She said he was “loyal and dependable”, especially for those he loved.

“He would help anybody out who needed it,” she said.

Born and raised in Shepparton, Mr Hatton had two daughters “who were his world” and 11 grandchildren.

Ms Penfold said he had “a cheeky streak” and brought humour and warmth wherever he went.

“He was family to a lot of people and a real character, just the life of the party,” she said.

“Craig’s spirit lives on in all of us — in the stories we share, the laughter we remember, and the love he gave so freely.

“He leaves behind a legacy of care, mischief, and deep connection.

“He’ll be missed every day, but never forgotten.”

Craig Hutton and his mother Marcia Hatton. Picture: Contributed

Rumbalara Aboriginal Co-Operative staff paid their condolences to the family on their Facebook page.

Craig worked closely with elders and community members — co-ordinating elders’ groups and activities, and offering daily companionship and care,” the post read.

“His passing leaves a huge gap in our workplace and community, and his warm presence will be deeply missed.

“We take comfort knowing he is reunited with loved ones who have passed and at peace once again in the Dreamtime.”

The family have set up a GoFundMe page to support funeral costs as Mr Hatton’s death was sudden.

Craig Hutton was well-known in Shepparton as a “real character”. Picture: Contributed

Ms Penfold said it was a difficult time but many people were stepping up to help where they could.

“We’re grateful to the community, people are so generous,” she said.

“It’s an opportunity to give Craig a good farewell but also for the community and his family to send him off.”

Cricketers Family Hotel Mooroopna is also supporting the GoFundMe and will donate $2 from every drink sold on Friday to the funeral costs.

The hotel posted a tribute to Mr Hatton and described him as a “loveable friendly man”.

A date for the funeral has yet to be finalised and the GoFundMe can be found online.