James R. Battenhouse
James Roy Battenhouse, 88, passed away 11/09/2020
Survivors Include: wife of 61-years Dorothy (nee Todl), Children Mark (Eileen) and Lisa (Brian) Dossa. Brother Robert (Melanne) Battenhouse. Grandchildren: Clara, Wyatt, Leigha, Kyra and Erin and numerous nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by his parents Roy and Mable (Cleary) Battenhouse and brother Jerry (Battenhouse)
Personal Interest: Jim always loved cars/auto repair. He taught electrical systems on tanks at Fort Knox while in the Army. Prior to owning his own business, he worked at his father’s business “Custom Hard Chrome Platers” in Cleveland. He was also a State Farms Claims Agent. Jim started his own business, “Battenhouse Auto Repair”, on Lorain Road in Fairview Park which he owned for 36-years. He was an avid collector of books, flashlights, guns, etc. He traveled extensively with his wife and brothers throughout his life.
Service Information: A private burial and service for immediate family members only at Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman. Due to Covid restrictions, the family will have a memorial service at Ascension Lutheran Church in North Olmsted at a later date.
Memorial Contributions may be made to: Ascension Lutheran Church, 28081 Lorain Road, North Olmsted, OH 44070
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Jim was a good friend who I have known for over 50 years. Although I have not seen Jim and Dorothy for many years, due to my wife’s long illness and finally passing, I will always have many fond memories of card games and other fun with them. They are fine people, and I will miss Jim, even though we visit only on the phone a few times per year. Dorothy, I hope you are well and can weather this difficult time, and continue to be the great lady I know. You are in my thoughts and prayers.
I’m so sorry. Grew up with Mark on Elm. Mr. Battenhouse was a great man. He tolerated all of us running around and playing. He was friendly and warm hearted. We always enjoyed going there. He will be missed by many and loved by even more.
When I, as a teenager 40 years ago, first met Jim I was impressed by the contrast between the imposing physical stature of this powerful burly man with a crew cut and Popeye forearms, and his kind, intelligent, gentle demeanor.
As he was a friend of my dad Jack Ulmer, I was privileged to hear Jim’s stories and witness his sense of humor, as well as his incredible knowledge and ability as a mechanic. It was quite the entertaining/learning experience for a young man to stop for early morning breakfasts on the way to car parts swap meets with my dad, Jim, and “Smitty” Harold Smith! It always amazed me how Jim could spot any obscure Corvair part from 50 feet away and tell you exactly where it went on the car.
I’m sorry to hear of Jim’s passing, but
I’m honored & grateful to have known such a gentleman whom my late parents and I respected so much. He will be missed by all who knew him.
My condolences to Dorothy and the rest of the family,
Rick Ulmer
I met Jim many years ago when he was partnering with Len Bade. I was in the old car parts business as a hobby and did some buying and selling with him several times over the years. I was always impressed by his car knowledge and willingness to take time out of his work to talk cars and parts. It was an honor and a real pleasure to know him.
Hello Dorothy, or as I know you as the best thing that ever happened to him.
I, am so so sad to hear that he past away. In my eyes, he was one of MY best friends, and we had a lot of great talks on our trips around the state, and will always remember our trip to Reno. Rest In Peace My Friend, and I will see you again down the road
Will miss you
Doug
Greetings Dorothy, Our deepest condolences to You of your loss.
When Jim fixed a couple of my cars, he would enjoy the ride in them.
At the OGCA. shows he would always stop at my table & chat awhile, he will be missed by his friends there and myself .
Jim was the best auto mechanic ever. He was also a great person to converse with as he read every book he collected.
I will miss him.
Bill Schabel
He and Dorothy were my 9th grade Sunday School teachers very knowledgeable and great personality
Mark and family, I’m so sorry for your loss. You’ll be in my prayers.
Dearest Dorothy, Mark, Lisa and Family,
What a great friend Jim was. We’ll always remember the trips to Auburn and car swap meets, and the wonderful conversations we had with him. His insatiable love of books and cars always kept us entertained.
We will miss his laugh and his good nature. Please find comfort in knowing he now rests in his Savior’s arms.
With love,
Liz & Ed
Dorothy, Mark, Lisa & families, I’m so sorry to hear about your loss. I will always remember babysitting for your family. Every time I saw a “Corvair”, I would look for Mr B! He will always be watching over you. RIP Mr Battenhouse!
Dorothy, Lisa, Mark and families. We are very sorry for your loss. Jim was a devoted husband and father. Know that you all are in our thoughts and prayers.
Lisa and Brian and Leigha, Erin, and Kyra
So sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in your fond memories.
Tom and Kathy
Our condolences yo Dorothy and the family. We met them thru the old car hobby and always enjoyed seeing them. Great couple, a lot of fun to be with. Jim’s depth of kowledge on a wide variety of subjects, meant we always had something to talk about. Good bye my friend, Jane & I will miss you.