Virgil A. Bateman, 93, of Loogootee, passed away at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, February 4, 2018 at Hillside Manor in Washington.
He was born May 9, 1924 in Martin County, Indiana to the late Willis Cleveland and Goldie (Freeman) Bateman.
Virgil was a veteran of the United States Army and served in the South Pacific during World War II. He was injured during combat and received a Purple Heart. He also received a Philippine Liberation Medal with two Bronze Stars. After being honorably discharged from the service, Virgil, was employed at Crane until his retirement. During his employment with Crane he was an ammunition packer. He loved to fish and watching Barr-Reeve and Indiana University basketball.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Elizabeth (Taylor) Bateman; parents, Willis Cleveland and Goldie (Freeman) Bateman; 7 brothers and 3 sisters; 3 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.
Virgil is survived by his sons, Robert D. (Brenda) Bateman of Washington, Tony (Marsha) Bateman of Columbus, John C. Bateman of Florida, Bill (Rosemary) Bateman of Ferdinand, Joe (Mary) Bateman of Washington, Gary L. Bateman of Otwell, Kevin Bateman of Bicknell and Keith Bateman of Washington; daughters, Kathy Utzman of Loogootee, Karen Ellis of Kentucky, Beverly Bateman of St. Louis, Missouri, Mary Elizabeth (Mike) Williams of Dale and Linda Bateman of Loogootee; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Funeral services will be conducted at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, February 7, 2018 at Blake Funeral Home in Loogootee. Burial will follow in Goodwill Cemetery.
Visitation will be held February 6, 2018 from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Blake Funeral Home.
Memorial contribution may be made to Barr-Reeve Scholarship Foundation.
Condolences may be made online at www.blakefuneralhomes.com.
Arrangements were provided by Blake Funeral Home in Loogootee.
