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Frank Batten Obituary

Frank Batten VIRGINIA BEACH - Frank Batten, 82, died Sept. 10, 2009, at Harbors Edge Retirement Community after a long illness. He was born in Norfolk on Feb. 11, 1927, to Frank and Dorothy Martin Batten. He graduated in 1945 from Culver Military Academy in Culver, Ind., received his B.A. from University of Virginia in 1950 and a MBA from Harvard Business School in 1952. He was the retired chairman and CEO of Landmark Communications Inc., and a former chairman of the Associated Press. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Jane; three children, Frank Jr. and his wife, Aimee of Norfolk, Leela of Encinitas, Calif., and Dorothy and her husband, Michael Bowles of Charlottesville, Va.; six grandchildren, Frankie and James Batten, Tara and Rami Rocuant and Graham and Hunter Rolph; and his beloved Scottie, Darby. The family thanks the nursing staff at Harbors Edge and his devoted aides from Jewish Family Service, Crystal, Marcie, Barbara, Nancy and Emmy for their tender care during his final months. Burial will be private. A memorial service will be held Thursday, Sept. 17, at 11 a.m. at Virginia Wesleyan College on Wesleyan Drive in Virginia Beach. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Access College Foundation, 7300 Newport Ave., Suite 500, Norfolk, VA 23505 or to a charity of choice. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Norfolk Chapel, is handling arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.hdoliver.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Virginian-Pilot on Sep. 11, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Frank Batten

Not sure what to say?





Donna Carlson

May 24, 2013

What a legacy this man has left. He may be gone, but he will be never forgotten! Rest In Peace Sir Batten!

Jules Acker

August 11, 2010

I Loved Batman & Robin the best when Frank Batten appeared.

A Guest

March 30, 2010

Those we love left us with gifts that no one can take away. They gave us wisdom, friendship, advice, comfort when we needed it, and memories of their laughter and smile. These are gifts of love that are ours to keep. Although I don’t know the family I would like to send my condolences to you. May the tender mercy that God has always shown be with your family now so you will know that you are not alone. And may the prayers of others help in some small way to bring you strength, comfort and courage each day. Many words will be expressed, yet we know God can express and provide to you and your family everything that is needed to care and sustain your hearts at this time. - Isaiah 41:10 & 13.

Jon Lowder

September 25, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

[email protected] /Joe Fazio

September 21, 2009

For Frank

WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio

Weather Channel Enthusiast

September 21, 2009

To the Batten Family:

Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this sad time. As a news junkie, the weather channel has been part of my daily diet for the past several years. Our many thanks for allowing his accomplishments to touch so many of our lives.

May you find comfort and hope in knowing that Mr. Batten is now in God's memory with the wonderful hope of being among the millions who are called from the memorial tombs to life on a righteous, peaceful earth (John 5:28 & 29)

Take Care

Jon Lowder

September 18, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Melvin Adams

September 18, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with the Batten family during this time of loss. May God bless them. And may He bless us all, Frank's admirers, with the generous heart he had. God bless his memory and legacy.

September 17, 2009

All my thoughts and prayers are with the Batten family during this time of sorrow. He was an innovator and a pioneer willing to take a chance. I was with The Weather Channel when it was in its infancy, and was fortunate enough to see it grow and become a household name!

My deepest sympathies,
Belinda Sym-Smith

Donna Jillson

September 16, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with the family in their time of sorrow. Please know how thankful I am to Mr. Batten and his family for all his contributions to Culver Military Academy/Culver Girls Academy. I am a 1980 graduate and though I did not know this great and accomplished man I am very aware of his benefits to a school I dearly love.
God bless you,
Donna S'78 W'80

[email protected] Joe Fazio

September 15, 2009

For Frank

WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio

September 15, 2009

My heart and prayers go out to the family of Mr. Batten. I had the good fortune of working for him as a reporter at The Roanoke Times, and again,as marketing manager for TeleCable in Greenville and Spartanburg (SC). His vision, management style and consideration of others were genuine and, certainly, ahead of his time. He was a true gentleman and will be missed terribly in the entire communications industry.
I am proud to say that I worked for, and enjoyed every minute, of working for Mr. Batten and Landmark.

Garnette (Helvey) Bane

Michelle

September 15, 2009

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Jon Lowder

September 15, 2009

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Mary Kay

September 15, 2009

Thank you Mr. Batten for the Weather Channel. Myself and my family and friends feel more secure knowing we can get instant reports both verbal and visual in case of bad weather and to be better prepared in the event that the bad weather hits our area. Thank you again and may you rest in eternal peace.

Trish

September 14, 2009

Dear Batten Family,

I didn't know Mr. Batten personally, but I am very sorry for your loss.

May "the God of all comfort" help you through this difficult time. 2 Cor. 1:3,4.

Eloise Smith

September 13, 2009

To the Batten Family
You all do not know me, but I was glancing through the obituaries and was very sorry to hear of the passing of your love me. It appears Mr. Batten had quit a life here. Did you know his life can continue right here on earth, but it will be the real life as brought out at 1 Timothy 6:19.

May the God of all mercies and love keep you and your family in his loving care and give you the strength beyond normal to endure these sad times.

[email protected] /Joe Fazio

September 13, 2009

For Frank

WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio

Ray Payne, MD

September 13, 2009

Although I only had the pleasure of getting to know Mr. Batten and Jane for a short time, I could tell there was something very special about this very gracious and kind couple. Despite his hardships with illness in his later years, he took it in stride and never complained once. He was a true gentleman and an inspiration to us all. My condolences to Jane and the rest of his family. You are in our prayers!

marcie wesner

September 13, 2009

You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Lynn Black

September 13, 2009

Dear Family No doubt the loss of your dear loved one is a hardship on your family Please find comfort in the words at Revelation 21:4 He will wipe out every tear from their eyes and death will be no more.My condolences for your loss.

Jennifer Underwood

September 12, 2009

I use to work for the News-Enterprise in Elizabethtown, Ky while his son, Frank Jr. was publisher there. Floe Bowles, who had been publisher there, told me about Batten Sr. and how Batten, Sr. wanted Bowles to teach him the business.

Jennifer Underwood, Elizabethtown, KY

Steve Dunn

September 12, 2009

I had the honor of having Mr. Batten as jury foreman on a murder trial in Virginia Beach, in which I was the lead Detective. He was a man of great honor and integrity. My sincere condolences to his family and friends. May he rest in peace.

Detective Steve Dunn
VBPD (Retired)

Sandi Saunders

September 12, 2009

As a devoted reader of Newspapers, I offer my sincere condolences and my most humble and grateful thanks for the news, the climate of courage brought to us and the outstanding legacy of Mr. Batten Sr.

Bill White

September 12, 2009

Dear Jane,
Your efforts with Frank for the Batten Leadership Program at Hollins University have meant so much to our students, so many who have seen just how their own lives can be one of accomplishment & leadership in their chosen field. Frank and you have been such important friends to many institutions among them Hollins, it is fitting tribute to Frank that his generous spirit will continue to provide benefits for so many now, even after he is gone from us.
My sympathy to you and your family,
Professor of Art Bill White

Stewart

September 12, 2009

Please accept our condolences To the Batten Family.May the comfort of family and friends carry you at this time in your life.May the God who give comfort be with you and to know others care means a lot.John5:28,29

[email protected] /Joe Fazio

September 11, 2009

For Frank

WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio

Muffy

September 11, 2009

To the family, friends and colleagues of Mr. Batten Sr., I offer my sympathy and condolences.

Mr. Batten's idea; a 24-hour, all weather station; so beautiful in its simplicity, now seems completely obvious. And necessary. I can't remember trip planning without it, and cringe at the thought of to return to those days. I also like the informative presentations on the workings of weather.

Thank you, Mr. Batten. May you rest peacefully.

R.J. Maloney

September 11, 2009

To the Batten Family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time. Mr. Batten was a great leader and an inspiration to us all.

R.J. Maloney

September 11, 2009

Rest in Peace, dear Person. I know you will be sorely missed by everyone who ever met you. You were a great and caring leader at the Pilot. Vicki Nelson

September 11, 2009

Jane,
Thinking about you.
Hang in there.
Bob Baydush

Tamra Cantore

September 11, 2009

To Frank Jr., Dorothy and the rest of your family...my thoughts and prayers are with you. I know I don't need to tell you how special your father was and how honored I was to be a part of your company. I wrote some brief thoughts in memory of your Dad that came to me when I heard the news that he had passed away:

LEGACY
The way you lived your life reflected grace and dignity,
Your life of caring and compassion have become your legacy.
The principles you lived by helped to build your company,
Your charachter built the culture, based upon trust and honesty.
You celebrated our successes and let us learn from our mistakes,
Unselfishly, you helped others deal with challenges you once faced.
The customer was your focus; you sought out their critique,
Employees were valued assets; which made Landmark so unique.
The respect you gave to others, came back to you ten-fold,
The impact that you had on me, in mere words cannot be told.
I wondered if you realized, how many lives your life has changed,
Today we mourn your passing, but our loss is heaven's gain.

9-10-09 By Tamra Cantore
******************
"God has given each of us the ability to do certain things well...If your gift is to encourage others, do it! If you have money, share it generously. If God has given you leadership ability, take the responsibility seriously." (NLT)
-Matthew 23:12
********************
Thank you Mr. Batten for allowing me to be a part of your legacy.

Rest in Peace, Tamra Cantore

Mary Payne

September 11, 2009

Jane, Frank Jr, Leela, Dorothy and all the Batten family members - I send my deepest sympathy for your loss of your husband,father,grandfather. You provided the support Frank has needed through his courageous struggles and enabled him to make such an impressive impact on our world. We are grateful to you and to him for his wonderfully generous and positive contributions.

Randy Mast

September 11, 2009

On a day filled with national memories, Frank Batten’s life commands a prominent spot in mine. I worked 18 years in the business culture that this humble giant created, and he easily became the businessman I most admire. Men of his stature and core values are rare and should be remembered. I am honored to have known him and worked for him. I pray for God’s infinite comfort for the Batten family in this time of grief.

Patrick Gainer

September 11, 2009

Jane and the Batten Family- My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.As I prepare to attend a meeting in the conference room that bears his last name, I am reminded of his dedication to Higher Education. Frank has left a legacy that will live on far beyond all of our lifetimes.

-Pat Gainer
Director of church Relations
Virginia Wesleyan College

Reverend Jim Lehman

September 11, 2009

Blessings and prayers to the Batten family.
It is nearly 50 years since working for Mr. Batten, at WTAR Radio-TV.
He is remembered as a wise,kind, thoughtful man who built and led a broadcast empire.
May his memory and accomplishments live long.
Reverend Jim Lehman
Gainesville,Florida

September 11, 2009

Mr. Batten helped make Landmark Communications a great place to work for. After seven years at The Roanoke Times, and spending time at companies thereafter, I quickly found that the principles and values Mr. Batten put in place are second to none. What he worked so hard to instill in to his companies, and ultimately all employees therein, are rare. I was blessed to work for such an organizatio and am appreciative for his vision, his efforts and his style. He will truly be missed. May his family find comfort in knowing that the life he lived touched the lives of many others. He truly left a legaacy.
Our prayers are with you all.
-Dee Dee
Salem, Va.

September 11, 2009

May God's peace surround the Batten family. Mr. Batten was a friend and leader to all that knew him. I feel privileged to have known him.

Karen Logan

Mary Smith

September 11, 2009

Batten family,

My sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. Mr. Batten was a pioneer in the industry. The Weather Channel has matured into a premiere tool that affects daily living. I love the Weather Channel. Mr. Batten will be missed by his family, friends, and admirers. God cares about us. In the scriptures at 1 Corinthians 1:3,4 God can bring comfort through our bereavement.

KC Pollak

September 11, 2009

What an amazing legacy he has left! His family should be very proud. All are in my prayers and thoughts as they grieve.

Henryk Zaleski

September 11, 2009

Rest in peace where weather is at your command.

Alexander Foreman

September 11, 2009

May the God of all comfort be with the family in your time of sorrow. Our Heavenly Father assures us that He will wipe out every tear from our eyes, and death will be no more. I offer my sincere condolences to you all.

R Golay

September 11, 2009

To the the family of Frank Batten Sr. - May God give you peace and comfort through his word and the Lord Jesus Christ during this time of sorrow,I know that Frank will be missed by many.

September 11, 2009

From the parents of a Culver Girls Academy student, we want to extend our deepest sympathies to the Batten family. Please know that Mr. Battens generosity is well known among the young adults attending the Culver academies. Mr Batten is an example of character and we hope that our daughter comes out half as good as Mr. Batten.

Eric and Jody Bogdan, Haddam, CT

Sharon Johnson

September 10, 2009

I was a Weather Channel addict from day one. I loved the format that Mr. Batten had for many years and miss the solid weather reporting that he aired. I read many articles about Mr.Batten's good works.
God Bless his family and friends.
I know he is now in Heaven where the weather is always perfect!
Peace Be With You, Frank
Sharon Johnson, Key Colony Beach, FL

Kathleen Indermill

September 10, 2009

Deepest condolences to Mr. Batten's family and friends from a grateful employee of The Weather Channel.

Sheila Smith

September 10, 2009

Rest in Peace Frank.

David Lawrence

September 10, 2009

There were months when the Weather Channel was the only television I would watch. The idea was visionary and fresh.
Comfort to the family, friends and associates in this loss.

Patricia A Jublikhan PC

September 10, 2009

Frank,
I never could get the weather right.
R.I.P.
XOXO,
Patty

Eileen Sharff

September 10, 2009

Both of my children attended The Culver Military Academy and Culver Girls Academy so I am aware of the EXTREME generousity of Mr. Batten. He made it possible for many young people to attend the Culver Academies by establishing the Batten Scholarship which provided a full 4 year scholarship, tuition, room and board for those who would not otherwise be able to avail themselves of this opportunity. My sympathy to the family of this charitable gentleman.

September 10, 2009

Frank Batten was humble and one of the nicest men I have ever known. My brief encounters with him have always been honored in my memory.
Gail (Edwards) McNeil

Raymond Velazquez

September 10, 2009

Frank you help me with a job when no one else would, because of my criminal record I couldn't work to feed my kids.
Thank you !!!

[email protected] /Joe Fazio

September 10, 2009

For Frank
You have touched the Landmark family
and millions of others throughout
this great land.
WEEP NOT FOR ME


Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.

Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.

I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.

Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.

Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.

Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.


© Joe Fazio

Stu Ostro

September 10, 2009

It was an honor to work for someone of Mr. Batten's integrity. He and his family are in my thoughts and prayers.

SCOTT CHAMBERLAND

September 10, 2009

REST IN PEACE

Pam Bertino

September 10, 2009

I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to work for such a great company - Landmark - built by such a tremendous leader - Frank Batten. Frank Jr. and the Batten family our hearts go out to you during this time of loss.

Paul G. Dover Sr

September 10, 2009

Rest in peace Mr. Batten. Your weather channel has been a life saver for a long time. God bless your family through these hard times.

Amanda Peck

September 10, 2009

My deepest sympathies go out to the Batten family.

Kim Shaw

September 10, 2009

I have been at The Weather Channel for many years and am so incredibly grateful for the opportunities that this organization has given me - and all of those opportunities were made possible because of the vision, compassion and leadership of Mr. Batten. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of loss.

Stu Ostro

September 10, 2009

It was an honor to work for someone of his integrity. He and his family are in my thoughts and prayers.

Bill Warren

September 10, 2009

Frank Batten created a journalistic environment that values integrity and public service. We will miss him.

Eileen Lichtenfeld

September 10, 2009

A visionary with heart - we can't aspire to be more.

Donny Pattullo

September 10, 2009

My condolences to the Batten family. It has been a distinct opportunity and pleasure working for a company that has benefited from Mr. Batten's influence and guidance.

Sincerely,
Donny Pattullo
WSI Corp

Jim Cantore

September 10, 2009

My prayers go out to his wonderful family who he leaves behind a genuine legacy of leadership, innovation and compassion. I appreciate all Mr. Batten and Landmark have done for myself and my family. Thanks Frank for not being afraid to take a chance and believing in "the little engine that could". You will be missed.

Jacquelyn Roberts-Willis

September 10, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Pamela Thomas

September 10, 2009

I was honored to work for such a great leader and such a honorable organization as The Weather Channel. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May God bless you and heal your loss.

Bruce Rose

September 10, 2009

Frank Jr. and the Batten family - My deepest sympathies for your loss. Mr. Batten was a great man and a great leader. He is missed.

Sincerely, Bruce Rose.. The Weather Channel

September 10, 2009

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Becky Powhatan

September 10, 2009

Frank was a very special person and created a workplace that made you proud to work for him. May the love of friends and family comfort you during this time.

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