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Lee Bateman Obituary
Visit the Relyea Funeral Chapel website to view the full obituary.
Lee Edward Bateman, affectionately known as "Chief," passed away peacefully on November 28th, 2025, at the age of 84. Born in Burley, Idaho, Lee lived a life of service, dedication, and love that touched everyone who knew him.
Lee is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryle, with whom he shared a lifelong partnership. Together they built a strong and loving family, raising their children: Butch (Lee Jr.), Stacie, and Christy. He was a proud grandfather to Payne Schwerdtfeger, Raylen Bateman, Zachary, Xander, and Ethan Skousen, and a delighted great-grandfather to Remi and Gabe Schwerdtfeger.
Lee's work ethic and drive began early. His first job was at The Lann Ranch, where he learned the value of hard work. He then joined the United States Air Force, embarking on a military career that was nothing short of extraordinary. Rising to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (USAF, Ret.), Lee served three tours in Vietnam and an 18-month tour in Korea, and was recognized many times for his bravery and dedication-including receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross twice. He was also a Distinguished First-Term Re-Enlistee of the Alaskan Air Command and Airman of the Year. His leadership, commitment, and courage left a lasting legacy among those he served with.
After retiring from the Air Force, Lee continued his lifelong pattern of service through roles with FEMA, Lockheed Martin, Hewlett-Packard, and later Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where he enjoyed staying active and engaged during his post-retirement years.
Lee married the love of his life, Cheryle, on September 5th, 1964. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake LDS Temple in August 1977, binding their commitment for time and all eternity.
A man of many passions, Lee loved yardwork, camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. He was a true car enthusiast, a dedicated Cornhusker fan, and was always happy to make a quick run to Lowe's or the post office. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, family member, and military leader-always steady, loyal, and strong.
Funeral services will be held at Relyea Funeral Home, 318 North Latah Street, Boise, Idaho 83706. A viewing will take place on Sunday, December 7th, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Services will be held on Monday, December 8th, at 10:00 a.m., with a family prayer at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Oakley, Idaho Cemetery.
Lee's life was one of honor, commitment, and deep love for those around him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
Lee is survived by his beloved wife, Cheryle, with whom he shared a lifelong partnership. Together they built a strong and loving family, raising their children: Butch (Lee Jr.), Stacie, and Christy. He was a proud grandfather to Payne Schwerdtfeger, Raylen Bateman, Zachary, Xander, and Ethan Skousen, and a delighted great-grandfather to Remi and Gabe Schwerdtfeger.
Lee's work ethic and drive began early. His first job was at The Lann Ranch, where he learned the value of hard work. He then joined the United States Air Force, embarking on a military career that was nothing short of extraordinary. Rising to the rank of Chief Master Sergeant (USAF, Ret.), Lee served three tours in Vietnam and an 18-month tour in Korea, and was recognized many times for his bravery and dedication-including receiving the Distinguished Flying Cross twice. He was also a Distinguished First-Term Re-Enlistee of the Alaskan Air Command and Airman of the Year. His leadership, commitment, and courage left a lasting legacy among those he served with.
After retiring from the Air Force, Lee continued his lifelong pattern of service through roles with FEMA, Lockheed Martin, Hewlett-Packard, and later Enterprise Rent-A-Car, where he enjoyed staying active and engaged during his post-retirement years.
Lee married the love of his life, Cheryle, on September 5th, 1964. They were later sealed in the Salt Lake LDS Temple in August 1977, binding their commitment for time and all eternity.
A man of many passions, Lee loved yardwork, camping, fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. He was a true car enthusiast, a dedicated Cornhusker fan, and was always happy to make a quick run to Lowe's or the post office. Above all, he was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, family member, and military leader-always steady, loyal, and strong.
Funeral services will be held at Relyea Funeral Home, 318 North Latah Street, Boise, Idaho 83706. A viewing will take place on Sunday, December 7th, from 5:00–7:00 p.m. Services will be held on Monday, December 8th, at 10:00 a.m., with a family prayer at 9:30 a.m. Interment will follow at the Oakley, Idaho Cemetery.
Lee's life was one of honor, commitment, and deep love for those around him. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
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