WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
Ronald “Skip” Batten, age 85, of Mendon passed away on Saturday, July 20, 2024 at Rose Arbor Centrica Hospice Care in Kalamazoo. He was born in Mendon on April 7, 1939 the son of Olin and Norma (Moore) Batten. Skip attended Mendon High School and was part of the 1957 graduating class. Skip worked at Fibre Converters in Three Rivers for 40 years and was also a volunteer for the Mendon Fire Department from 1960 until 2000. In his spare time Skip enjoyed watching sporting events (especially the Boston Red Sox), bird watching, taking great pride in keeping an immaculate yard, and spending time with family. At Christmas, he was well known for his incredible light display.
Skip is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Sharon; two children; Kevin (Cathy) Batten of Three Rivers and Jody (Randy) Barter of Schoolcraft; four grandchildren; Taylor Batten, Tanner Batten, Ashton (Austin) Stedman, and Jenna (Andre) Barkholz; two great-grandchilren; Samuel Stedman and Caleb Stedman; sister Sharlene Brueck; and many nieces and nephews. Skip was preceded in death by his parents Olin and Norma Batten; daughter Kimberly Batten; and four brothers; “Bill” Batten, “Gene” Batten, “Wheat” Batten, and Dick Batten.
In keeping with his wishes, cremation is being conducted. The family will receive friends from 2 until 3pm on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at the Eickhoff Funeral Home (311 W Main Street, Mendon, MI 49072) with a memorial service beginning at 3:00 with Pastor Carl Litchfield officiating. Interment will take place in Mendon Cemetery following the service.
Donations made in Skip’s name may be directed to the Batten family for improvements made at Wheat’s Field, which was built in honor of his brother. Condolences and memories may be expressed to the family at eickhofffuneralhome.com
