Thomas E. Battler

Thomas E. Battler, 73, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, June 27, 2019.

Tom was born March 20, 1946 in Kansas City, Missouri to the late Christian T. and Clara P. (Imhoff) Battler.  He was also preceded in death by his loving companion of over 50 years, Lois M. Doty: two stepchildren; Janette Blocher and Randy Doty and one step granddaughter, Mandi Deputy.

Surviving are two stepdaughters; Marcy Hoogenboom of Elkhart and Dannielle (Donald) Hudler of Charlotte, NC; a cousin, Doug Battler of London Ontario, Canada; eight step grandchildren, eight step great grandchildren, two step great-great grandchildren, his adopted family, Ellen (Shawn) Owens-Grattenthaler of Elkhart and special friends, Vasil Kabachenko, Jim Meyers and Dale Berkey.  Also surviving are his fur babies, Lucky and Jake.

Tom attended Jimtown High School and graduated from Bethany Christian High School.  He started and ran three businesses: Battler Industries, After Five BBS and most recently, Midwest Surplus, LLC.  He enjoyed NASCAR, his cats and spending time with his friends at Greenleaf Living Center.  Tom, being a cat lover, was also a proponent of feral cat rescue.  He never met a stranger and had friends everywhere he went.  He had a loving, giving heart and enjoyed making people laugh.  He had a strong faith in the Lord.  Psalm 91.

Private family services will be held and burial will be in Prairie Street Cemetery.  Hartzler-Gutermuth-Inman Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in memory of Tom may be made to the Humane Society of Elkhart County 54687 C.R. 19 Bristol, IN 46507.

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