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James Michael Bateman

James Michael Bateman

Apr. 6, 1969 - Dec. 11, 2020

Date of Service: Dec. 21, 2020

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MURTAUGH – James Michael Bateman, a 51-year-old resident of Murtaugh, passed away unexpectedly Friday, Dec. 11, 2020, at St. Luke’s Magic Valley Medical Center in Twin Falls.

When he chose to go home, he knew that his wife, Gayle Andrew Bateman, and his children, Jerek Bateman, Logan Bateman, and Dany Bateman, would be well cared for. His parents, Michael Ray and Sue Ann Oakeson Bateman, along with his brothers and sisters, Heidi Robbins (Bruce), Michael Bateman (Amy), David Bateman (Jenny), Harley Bateman (Amber), and Anna Bateman, will miss him very much.

He was always there for his family and friends. He brought happiness to everyone who knew him. Throughout his life he had participated in several forms of farming. Participating and interacting with farmers was one of his passions. His greatest love was volleyball. He loved coaching the sport as well as playing. His love for all of his volleyball teams was unending. While he loved volleyball very much, his love for his family always shined brightest.

He did not know what a stranger was; no matter who they were he was always warm and welcoming, making all who met him feel loved and appreciated. He was a sensitive soul; it wasn’t uncommon to come into a room to find him wiping his tears away, usually while listening to the struggles of others. We love him! He will be missed.

The funeral will be held at 11 a.m. Monday, Dec. 21, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Murtaugh Ward, located at 23709 Hwy. 30, in Murtaugh, with Bishop Rod Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Gem Memorial Gardens in Burley.

Friends may call from 5 until 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 20, at Rasmussen-Wilson Funeral Home, 1350 E. 16th St., in Burley, and at the church on Monday, from 10 until 10:45 a.m.

With the ongoing effects of COVID-19, the wearing of face masks will be required at both the viewing and funeral service where social distancing will be practiced.

For those unable to attend the funeral service in person, a live webcast of the Funeral Service will be available at the following link: https://youtu.be/75OxH27hyzY.

Condolences for James Michael Bateman

Comments may be screened and removed by the staff as deemed appropriate.

From Brent Dietz:
I really truly sad to hear this. What a great person.
From Jennifer Crockett :
After my late husband passed, I came to Idaho to be closer to my mother. And she convinced me to come up with her to her Aunt Gail and Uncle James house to get away and have fun. I had always loved being around them both and loved their energy, light and fun demeanor, and while I hadn’t seen them in years I said yes, And I was excited to catch up. When I got there, James convinced me to go play some volleyball with him and the youth, or go out golfing; since I never really had before, and watch some uplifting movies with the kids. It felt sooo good to have some fun again, and with family. I’m sooo grateful for his thoughtful heart, and sensitive soul that sees through pain and tries to help in any way he could. We sure do miss you James. love you Gail, your in my prayers.
From Alvin H Andrew:
James was a wonderful brother-in-law. Always kind. Always considerate. One time I broke down at Blue Creek, Utah while returning from Salt Lake City to Idaho. James was the one I called. No cell phones, so I had to walk about 3 miles to a farm house to make the call. James cheerfully came to my rescue along with his friend Randy who owned a trailer that could haul my Explorer. That was just the way he was. I shall miss him greatly.

I am deeply grieved for his loss to my Sister and their family, but I know Father will sooth their souls and heal their grief. Love you Sis. Love your family. I wish we could be there for you, but you are in my prayers every day.
From Delwin Andrew:
Soon after we moved back to Idaho we made a trip to Burley from our Meridian home and on our return trip our car broke down. Our first though was to call James. He drove most of the way to Boise (pulling a vehicle trailer) loaded up the car, and took us and our car to our home. We invited him to stay the night but he cheerfully declined and drove back to his home in Rupert. So typical of this good man. He will be missed. So sorry for you lose Sis.
From Carrie Herold:
I am so sorry, James was my Home Teacher in Rawlins and was such a big help to me. I loved seeing him in the stores or about town. He always had a smile on his face and was so warm and pleasant to be around. I still see his shop and think of him. Sincere condolences to his family may the Lord keep you in his hands and bless you with his comfort
From Deborah Blazzard:
Oh my goodness. I am so sorry for your loss. I loved playing volleyball with James. One year when I coached with Robin he bought all of the girls and coach’s brand new volleyball shoes so we could look like a team. He was always giving of his time. He is such a great example of service. I am grateful to have know him and his family.
From Linda Dickinson:
Our prayers are with all of you.
From Fidel Alcala :
James You will be missed by everyone that got to know you Rest In Peace and may God Give Your Family The Strength to heal their hearts in your this hard time of sorrow
From David McCoy:
James, James, James - dangit! So sorry to hear about this - he was a good friend and neighbor. One time after the wind flipped my car on it’s side on I-80 headed towards Saratoga, WY, someone helped me right side up, but I was left to drive home in a wobbly mess. I knew James was in front of me as we always shared where we were at during storms. I asked my friend to turn around and drive with me back just in case. I know it wasn’t convenient as he was probably almost home, but he turned around without a thought and helped me get safely back to Saratoga. Knowing he was there gave me strength. I’ll miss that cheery smile and hello. May God bless and keep his family.
From Nathan Thornock:
Sorry to hear about the James' passing. I enjoyed working with James at Folsom Industrial and am very sad to hear about this. My deepest condolences!!
From Wayne Andersen:
We are truly saddened by the news of James passing.

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