Norman Bathke, 87, lifelong farmer from Medaryville, passed away Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Franciscan Health Hospital in Rensselaer, IN.
He was born on July 14, 1936 at the farmstead home in White Post Township to the late Otto and Hilda [Liersch] Bathke. Norman graduated from Medaryville High School in 1954 and attended Purdue University.
On August 20, 1960, he married Judith Mendenhall at Pulaski Presbyterian Church. Judith passed away on June 28, 2015.
Norman was a member of St. John’s United Church of Christ in Medaryville where he served several decades as treasurer. He worked hard all of his life and was proud to be part of a successful generational farming legacy. Norman enjoyed his annual trips to Minnesota/Wisconsin where he made lifelong friends that became family.
Norman was faithful to help his family, friends, and neighbors. He loved attending his grandchildren’s and great grandchildren’s events. Norman will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by:
Doug (Sandy) Bathke, Son
Diana (David) Ricks, Daughter
Chuck (Sally) Bathke, Son
Trevor (Ashley Cox) Bathke, Grandson
Trent (Betsy) Bathke, Grandson
Spencer Ricks, Grandson
Bryan (Jade VanMeter) Bathke, Grandson
Michael (fiancé: Allison Hunt) Bathke, Grandson
Emerson Cox, Great Granddaughter
Hudson Bathke, Great Grandson
Austin Bathke, Great Grandson
Jackson Bathke, Great Grandson
Leighton Bathke, Great Granddaughter
Arden (Phyllis) Bathke, Brother
Karen Mendenhall, Sister-in-law
Melissa Alexander, Niece
Preceded in death by:
Otto and Hilda [Liersch] Bathke, Parents
Judith [Mendenhall] Bathke, Wife
Alex Douglas Bathke, Infant Grandson
Ron Mendenhall, Brother-in-law
Visitation will be from 4-7 PM EDT Tuesday, April 9, 2024 at Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Medaryville.
Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM EDT Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Medaryville with Pastor Don Embree officiating.
Burial will take place at St. John’s Cemetery in Medaryville.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. John’s Memorial Fund.
Online tributes may be offered at www.frainmortuary.com.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Frain Mortuary Querry-Ulbricht Chapel in Medaryville.
