Jimmy (Jim) Vernon Batchelor Obituary (1942

Jimmy (Jim) Vernon Batchelor, born 4/19/1942 in Palisade, CO. He passed peacefully at home in Port Angeles on 11/18/24, with his family at his side. He knew where he was going and left with a smile on his face. Jim is survived by his wife Becky, of 59 years. Daughters: Darcel (Bob Boyd), Joan (Steven Crossland). Sons: Nathan (Allison), Damion (Jodi), Kaleb (Elsa), 15 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren. Brother: Larry Batchelor, Sisters: Judy Johnson, Vera Mayhak, and Cindy McFarland. Preceded in death by father, Arthur Batchelor, mother Ardith Stahl-Batchelor, and brother Terry Batchelor. Jim's parents moved the family to Port Angeles, WA in 1952 where Jim remained until he enlisted in the Navy Reserves in 1964. Jim was granted a six-month deferment from active duty in 1965 to marry his fiance, Becky German. He served in Vietnam as an Engineman with the Swift Boat Patrols at Subic Bay. After a year he returned to San Diego and Vallejo, CA. to serve on the ship U.S. Cogswell until he was released from active duty in December 1967. Jim was awarded the Vietnam Service medal, the National Defense Medal, and a Vietnam Campaign Medal, leaving active duty as an EN2. Returning to Port Angeles in 1968, Jim and Becky started their family. They remained there eight months before Jim was given the opportunity to learn the drywall trade, which expanded into other construction areas lasting for 52 years before retiring at 78. Jim loved time with his kids in sports and fishing. Family was extremely important to him. He would take the family on road trips to visit relatives in CO and other states. Church was a priority on Sundays followed by an afternoon and dinner with the grandparents. Another favorite pastime was bowling in men's and mixed leagues. In 1981 they moved the family to Sequim where they resided for 37 years before returning to Port Angeles. Jim really enjoyed running into classmates from schooldays and guys he worked with at local mills right after high school. It was amazing the memory that he had for faces and names. Jim will be remembered for his good nature and always present smile. There will be a celebration of life for Jim at Independent Bible Church 116 E Ahlvers Rd, Port Angeles, WA on Jan 11, 2025 at 1:00 pm. The service will be streamed at www.youtube.com/@independentbiblechurch In lieu of flowers, it would be appreciated if donations were made to Wounded Warriors Project.org. Arrangements entrusted to The Stone Chapel Poulsbo Mortuary.