Robert Michael “Mike” Batson, age 67 passed away at home on July 28, 2022 at 8:30 A.M. surrounded by his family.
He was born on January 23, 1955 in Galesburg to Robert & Shirley (Kilpatrick) Batson. They preceded him in death. Mike married Dale Lynn Smith on September 4, 1976 in Galesburg, IL. He is survived by his wife and four children: Travis Batson of Knoxville, IL, Kasey (Jim) Osborne of Knoxville, IL, Chad Batson (Holly Maestas) of Lincoln, IL, and Blake Batson of Kansas, MO; Four Grandchildren: Harly Osborne of Knoxville, IL, Mika Osborne of Knoxville, IL, Gavin Batson of Lincoln, IL, Charly Batson of Knoxville, IL; one sister, Susan (J.R.) Wilson of Knoxville IL; a niece, Sara Batson and a nephew Rob (Kelly) Purdy, that stayed with him often; and many more nieces and nephews.
Mike attended Abingdon High School, then he enlisted into the United States Army in 1973 in the 101st Airborne. He worked at Briggs Industries until is closed. Mike owned and operated pizza restaurants with his children in Knoxville, Monmouth, and Lincoln, IL. He enjoyed riding his motorcycle and fishing at his pond with his children. He loved his giant Schnauzer “Gypsy”. He will be greatly missed.
Per his wishes he will be cremated and there will be no services. Memorial contributions may be made to a Children’s Hospital or to an Animal Shelter. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Home & Crematory, Knoxville, IL have been entrusted with his arrangements. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com
