Maurice B. Bateman

Bateman, Maurice B.
A loving husband and father who dedicated his life to serving others died March 24 at his home in Mesa. He was 86, born on May 29, 1927, in Alpine, Utah, to Frank and Erma Bateman. He lived there until he joined the Army, serving in the Air Corps during World War II. He earned his BS at BYU, where he met his wife, Arlene Shepherd. They were happily married for 63 years. After earning a master's degree, he moved to Arizona in 1950. A year later, he became Mesa's Parks and Recreation Director, garnering many awards and honors. He retired after 32 years, taking only one sick day his entire career. He was an avid golfer and made great use of his retirement gift, a lifetime pass to Dobson Ranch Golf Course, which he helped develop. He was active in the Rotary club for many years. Maurice was an avid traveler, and with his wife explored most of the world. A lifelong member of the LDS Church, he held many leadership positions, including Mesa 25th Ward Bishop, and Mission President in Johannesburg, South Africa. He and his wife for many years produced the popular Easter pageant at the Mesa LDS temple. They have always been active in their community and devoted patrons of the arts. Maurice is survived by his wife, Arlene. They have six children: Kathryn Nunes (Robert); Craig Martin (deceased); Paul Tracey; Maren Showkeir (Jamie); Julianne Kravetz (David); and Laura Boelter (Richard). They also have 24 grandchildren and 28 great-grandchildren. He is survived by his sister, Gwen Kotsiopolus; and was preceded in death by his siblings, Thayne, Dean, and Cleone Turner. Services will be at 11 a.m. Wednesday at the LDS 25th Ward, 848 N. Westwood. Visitation will be from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Meldrum Mortuary, 52 N. McDonald, and two hours prior to the service.