William "Bill" Bateman

1931 - 2022

William "Bill" Bateman William "Bill" Bateman, 91 of Midland, passed away on November 30, 2022. A private service and burial were held December 6, 2022 at Resthaven Memorial Park in Midland. Bill was born on August 27, 1931 in Amarillo, TX to Elbert and Alta (Nowlin) Bateman. Bill married Darlene Mulherin on November 27, 1953. Shortly after, he graduated from the University of Texas with a BS in Mechanical Engineering. His first career was in the oil and gas industry working for Shell Oil Company for 25 years. This stint spanned multiple locations and progressive responsibility, ending as Shell's regional safety manager in Midland. This spawned Bill's second career - consulting for some 20 years. This led him to work for both plaintiff and defense attorneys as an expert witness. He routinely investigated oil and industrial accidents applying his engineering and safety expertise. He learned his way around a courthouse and enjoyed his association with many lawyers that he worked for. Bill was a charter member of the Society of Forensic Engineers. More importantly, Bill was a family man and servant to friends, strangers, and civic matters. He loved his wife and four kids. He was a good provider, but it was the time he spent with family and kids that left a mark. Bill supported his community by serving and leading the Midland Junior Baseball Association during much of the 70's. Bill was a believer in Jesus Christ - praise God. He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Darlene, daughters June Coburn and Susan Bateman, and son, Clay Bateman. Bill is preceded in death by his parents, Elbert and Alta Bateman, a sister, Faye Phillips, and a son, Willie Bateman. The family would like to express their gratitude towards the administration and staff of Gentiva Hospice, Cimarron Place assisted living, Two Hearts Home Health, and Dr. Vikram Vadyala and staff. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Samaritan's Purse, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Hospitals for Children, or Tunnel to Towers Foundation. Arrangements were made under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences may be made at www.npwelch.com.