- Date Of Birth: January 5, 1950
- Date Of Death: September 22, 2017
- State: Illinois
James R. “Jim” Battefeld, 67, of Meredosia, died Friday, Sept. 22, 2017, at his home.
He was born Jan. 5, 1950, in Jacksonville, the son of Archie L. and Phyllis E. Ruyle Battefeld. He married Sandra Hendricks on Apr. 22, 1972, in Bluffs, and she survives.
He is also survived by two daughters, Susan (Mark) Lipcaman of Rushville and Kimberly (Chris) Smith of Meredosia; two grandsons, Kale Ridings and Dane Ridings, both of Meredosia; his father, Archie Battefeld of Meredosia; and two sisters and one brother, Pamela (Frank) Robbins of Canton, Douglas (Tena) Battefeld of Meredosia, and Sarah (Jim) Jackson of Versailles. He was preceded in death by his mother, Phyllis Battefeld; and two brothers, Reginald Battefeld in infancy and Tony Battefeld.
Mr. Battefeld was a 1969 graduate of Meredosia-Chambersburg High School. After graduation he was drafted into the U.S. Army, serving in the Vietnam War, where he earned a Bronze Star and received a Purple Heart. He retired from the Army due to the wounds he suffered, and then began a career at National Starch in Meredosia. He worked there for 33 years, retiring in 2005. Jim was a member of the Society of the 5th Division Red Diamonds. He was a lifelong Cardinals fan, and enjoyed hunting and fishing. He especially loved spending time with his grandchildren.
