Obituaries

Gene was born on July 21, 1946, in Lansing, Michigan, to Donald and Josephine Bateman. He lived a full and happy life surrounded by family, friends, with plenty of laughter and stories.

Known to many as “Papa,” Gene dedicated his career to the Lansing Fire Department, where he retired as Captain. Before joining the fire department, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy and earned his title as a Navy Veteran. During that time, he met the love of his life, Judy, and the two were married in 1966. Together they shared 59 wonderful years filled with love and adventure.

Gene was a licensed contractor and the true definition of a jack of all trades — there wasn’t anything he couldn’t fix. He loved spending time outdoors, farming, fishing, hunting, and especially sailing on his boat.

He was preceded in death by his parents and four brothers. Gene is survived by his wife, Judy; daughter Sherri (Jim) Claucherty; son Mike (Lara) Bateman; five grandchildren, Daniel (Regina) and Emily Claucherty, and Brandon, Larissa, and Jacob Bateman; and lifelong friends Jerry and Marsha Ericks.

A celebration of Gene’s life will be held at a later date.

The family would like to thank the wonderful caregivers at Hospice of Lansing for their kindness and compassionate care.