Alexander J Batten

Alexander J. Batten, 88, of Eastern Parkway, Schenectady died Friday evening June 16, 2006 at Vassar Brothers Medical Center in Poughkeepsie. He had been ill since March 5, 2006 and was seeking further rehabilitative efforts downstate. Al was born on September 12, 1917 and was the son of the late Justin and Mary Batten. He graduated from Nott Terrace High School and the GE Apprentice Program. Al was employed for 42 years as a Master Tool and Die Maker for GE in Schenectady, retiring in 1980. He was a member of the Eastern Parkway Methodist Church in Schenectady. Al enjoyed his affiliation with the GE Apprentice Alumni and the GE Quarter Century Club, looking forward to yearly for reminiscing with old friends. He was an avid handball player, participating actively in handball twice a week up till his illness. Al was over a 50 year member of the YMCA and will be missed deeply by his handball buddies who considered him inspirational and loved. He was known as a quiet, good humored, honest and generous man and a beloved father. Al enjoyed the outdoors, canoeing, fishing, gardening, card playing and good hikes in healthier days. He is predeceased by his wife Jane Putrock Batten who died January 6, 2001 and two sisters Marian Batten and Helen Jacobs. Survivors include a daughter Nancyjane Batten of Rotterdam and her best friend Diane Fisher of Rotterdam who is considered part of the family. Funeral Services will be Wednesday at 11AM at the Bond Funeral Home Broadway and Guilderland Avenue Schenectady. Relatives and Friends are invited to attend. A calling hour will be held from 10-11AM at the funeral home. Internment will be in Memory's Garden in Colonie, NY. Memorial gifts can be made in Al's memory to the Critical Care Unit of St. Clare's Hospital 600 McClellan Street Schenectady, NY 12304 where Al was cared for so devotedly with commitment, love and expertise.