Edward William Batchelor

Do not go gentle into that good night, old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light are words by Dylan Thomas. A poem I have always loved and now means more to me than ever.

Last night tonight, my father made the difficult decision to pass on from this world. He fought the battle that is life with gusto all the way to the bitter end. My brother and I were blessed to be with him when he made the call to join our mother and beloved sister on the other side. His life is a testament to what overcoming is all about. He began his journey as a three-month old who was left at a fair by his mother to become the man he was. A 20-year military veteran rising to the rank of Major after beginning as a mere private. During his career in the Army, he watched the Berlin wall being built right in front of his eyes, served in Vietnam with multiple tours, earning multiple bronze stars and preforming other duties that none of us have clearance to ever know about. After his decorated military career, he would serve another 23 years with his beloved Army Corp of Engineers. Bill was a tremendous family first person who always made sure he was present whenever possible for his children and grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his parents Rupert and Meretta Batchelor, his wife our mother Barbara, beloved daughter Patty, brother Ernie, sister in-law Bobsey, sister Beverley, brother-in-law Dwight Sr. and nephew Dwight Jr. He is survived by his sons Bill and Richard, daughter in laws Lori and Jennifer, granddaughters Chase, Brandi, Cameron, Colby and Tricia and his great grandson Reid. His nieces Wendy, Debbie, Deborah, Amy, Karen and nephew David.

Some say Bill, “Batch” was a difficult man, but to know him was to love him. He is a soul that we get to encounter only once in each of our lives. And for those who got to know him were truly blessed. His spirit my may not pass this way again.