Thomas F. Batell, Jr.

Thomas F. Batell, Jr. died at home on January 31 surrounded by members of his family. He was born in Galesburg, Illinois on September 14, 1944 to Col. Thomas F. Batell, Sr. and Ethel Gottrick Batell. He grew up in Knoxville, IL where he had an idyllic childhood hunting, fishing and playing baseball and other sports.

Tom graduated from Knoxville High School and Knox College in Galesburg. He earned a Ph.D in political science from Southern Illinois University in 1971. He later earned an MBA from Winona State University. Tom taught at Mercy College, Ryder College and Upper Iowa University. His focus was on upholding and preserving the U.S. constitution, ensuring equal justice, and fostering an open and decent society for all.

Tom married Joan Robinson in 1971 and they had a daughter, Dawn. They later divorced. Tom and Sue Smith met at Upper Iowa where they were both professors. They married in 1979. Together they had three sons, Brian (Amy), Michael (Maricris), and Mark. Tom was a loving and devoted father and grandfather who organized and followed the myriad activities of his children and grandchildren.

Tom is survived by his loving wife, Sue Smith Batell and children, Dawn (Louie) Batell Gonzalez, Mundelein IL, Brian, (Amy) Mars, PA, Mike (Maricris), LaCrosse, Mark, LaCrosse. His grandchildren, Ben, Alli, Lily and Katelyn remember him as a devoted grandfather who loved spending time with them. His silly birthday notes are legendary to the grandchildren.

Tom is also survived by his in-laws Ann and Kevin Grogan, Dick and Joyce Smith, Jack and Maria Smith and Martha Smith Mulgrew (Joe). He was preceded in death by brothers-in-law Joe Smith and Steve Smith and sister-in-law Ann Smith.

Tom will live forever in the heart and spirit of his family.

Tom’s family thanks Gundersen Hospice for their excellent care and support.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Schumacher-Kish Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.