On Thursday, January 19, 2023, Dr. Joshua Michael Hatkin of Whaleyville, loving husband, father, grandfather and brother passed away at the age of 76. He was born on November 4, 1946 in Washington D.C., son of the late Sidney Hatkin and Gertrude Hatkin Gilbert. Josh was known for his kind and considerate spirit for animals and will be especially missed by his poodle, George. He was active with Town Cats of Ocean City, volunteering as their veterinarian. He loved the outdoors and could often be found walking and playing with his grandchildren in the yard or at the beach. Josh earned a DVM from the University of Georgia and a PhD in microbiology from Auburn University. He spent the majority of his working years as an Avian Pathologist and Microbiologist in the states of Mississippi, Maryland and Pennsylvania. He was was a member of Community Church in Ocean Pines. Josh served honorably and selflessly in both the Army and Air National Guard as a veterinarian and public health officer, retiring after 20 years of service. He is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Janet L. Hatkin; daughter, Brittany Hippler (Sidney); grandchildren, Dakota and Zella Hippler; sister, Naomi Hatkin (Chad Thompson); niece, Solei Thompson and nephew, Jesse Thompson A visitation for family and friends will be held from 11:00-12-00 on February 4, 2023 at Short Funeral Home in Delmar. A funeral service will begin at noon. Pastor Dale Brown will officiate. Interment will follow the service in Mardela Memorial Cemetery. In memory of Dr. Hatkin, contributions may be sent to Town Cats, P.O. Box 1405, Ocean Pines, MD 21811. Arrangements are in the care of Short Funeral Home in Delmar. Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.shortfh.com.