A Colorado native, Charles “Charlie” Batley, 94, moved on to his Eternal home on Nov. 4, 2014 surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was a resident of Colorado Springs for 57 years. He move here from Fairview Heights, IL to support construction of the Air Force Academy.
Charlie was born in Dec. 2, 1919 to Charles H. and Minnie (Warwick) Batley in Canon City, CO. He has joined his parents and daughter, Cynthia (Batley) Pickett who preceded him in death.
Charlie grew up in Brookfield, MO where he graduated from high school. He attended college in Chicago, obtaining a degree in diesel engineering. He worked in St. Louis at Riverview Stone when he joined the Navy in 1944. Before he shipped out to the Philippines, he married Ruth (Andis), who remained the love of his life almost 70 years. They moved to Colorado Springs in 1957 to join Castle Concrete Co., and had a hand in the construction of the Air Force Academy, NORAD, and Ft. Carson. Many friends were made from those working relationships, and through Colorado Springs Contractors, Masonic Lodge, and his church. He always had a friendly smile and genuine concern for those who worked for him and with him.
Charlie and Ruth had two daughters, Cynthia, and Charlene (Batley) Tackett and four grandchildren, Elizabeth (Pickett) Haynes, Matthew Charles Pickett, Hannah Ruth Tackett, and Jeremiah Charles Tackett who loved and adored their Pa-pa and learned from him the best of life lessons: faithfulness, hard work, kindness, love for family, and most important a love for God.
He was a faithful member of First Southern Baptist Church, where he was a deacon and spent many volunteer hours after retirement, and helped cook for the Men’s Prayer breakfast up until a few weeks ago.
Charlie and Ruth traveled in retirement, members of the Gray Wolves chapter of Family Campers. Roaming the country in their RV with this wonderful group of friend made for many sweet memories. He enjoyed golfing at Cherokee Ridge and playing new courses when traveling. They loved to go on cruises, visit with friends and family in IL, and just spend time with the grandkids. Also surviving are a niece and many cousins.
A visitation will be held from 2-3pm. on Saturday, Nov. 8 at First Southern Baptist Church, followed by a Memorial service at 3pm., also at the church. Private Entombment will be at Shrine of Remembrance.
Memorials in Charlie’s name may be made to the First Southern Baptist Church, Colorado Springs, CO, or to In Touch Ministries, Atlanta GA.