OSCEOLA- James Batten passed away Saturday morning at his residence with family by his side. James was born to Clyde E. and Alberta E. (Chambers) Batten in Mishawaka. He had worked as an auto painter for Basney Ford for many years. He loved hunting, fishing and camping once a year he would have a family campout at Potato Creek with his entire family this was a real joy to him. James would also go up to the U.P. in Michigan to smelt fish. James had a special little friend who was always by his side whose name was Eddie a little Jack Russell terrier. He was also an avid NHRA drag racing fan. James married the love of his life Jerry Lee (Alford) and they would raise two children. James is survived by son Raymond(Laura)Batten and daughter Sherri Batten and her soul mate Kent Nusbaum and two grandchildren Michelle(Brian)Hartz and Elizabeth Batten he also has two brothers Robert(Sharon)Batten and David Batten. Friends may gather at Chapel Hill Funeral Home 10776 McKinley Highway Osceola, IN Wednesday May 6, 2015 from 4:00pm - 8:00pm. Funeral service will be held Thursday may 7, 2015 at 2:00pm with a one prior visitation with burial to immediately follow at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens with Pastor Bob Vale officiating