THE PLAINS, Ohio — Chester Bateman, 66 of The Plains passed away Thursday February 26, 2026, at O’Bleness Memorial Hospital, Athens. Born August 4, 1959, in Athens, he was the son of the late George H. II and Patricia Blackford Bateman.
He retired after dedicating 25 years of service to Don Wood Automotive in Athens. Throughout his career, he was recognized as a committed and hardworking employee. Chester was a member of the Chauncey Volunteer Fire Department and cherished time spent with his family.
He is survived by his fiancé, Lori Strausbaugh of The Plains; sons, Erik “Bubba” (Brianna) Bateman of Canaanville, Dale Canter, and Tyler Canter, both of Athens; daughters, Emily “Alexis” (Jan Loudermilk) Bateman of Glouster, Amanda (Nathan) Moore of Chauncey, and Shannon Dickens of The Plains; grandchildren, Kenzie (Kacey Davis) Gambill, Andrea Erwin, Austin (Christen) Whitlatch, Chelsea (Chase Wooten) Erwin, Jakob Moore, Kimberly, Gabe, and Sawyer Erwin; great grandchildren, Mason Davis, Waylen Russell, and Logan Whitlatch; brothers, Gene (Betsy) Bateman of Millfield, and George (Peggy) Bateman of Millfield; a sister, Jane Barnhart of Chauncey; the mother of his children, Johna Benjamin of Columbus; and special nieces and nephews.
Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by a son, Andrew Bateman; a sister, Maxine (Gene) Thomas; brothers-in-law, Jim Blackford, Pete Barnhart, and Bill Antle; in-laws, Guard and Dymple Dickens, June Antle, and Jack Antle.
Cremation has taken place, and a celebration of life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements have been entrusted to Morrison Funeral Chapel, Glouster-Bishopville. A message of comfort may be sent to the family by visiting www.morrisonfc.com.
