Jack Calvin Bateman

Jack Calvin Bateman of Van Buren, passed away Friday, January 26, 2024 in Fort Smith at the age of 95. He was born February 15, 1928 to the late James and Ollie Mae (Tisher) Bateman in Stilwell, Oklahoma. The family moved to Sunnyside, Washington where Jack grew up and attended school. After graduation, he worked in retail sales and in banking before joining the U.S. Army in 1950. The Army was his career, and he spent a number of years with the Alaska Communications System in Anchorage and Tok, Alaska, which was operated by the Army.

Later his specialty was personnel and administration, and it took him to many places in the world including Japan, Germany and Vietnam. He was awarded the Army Meritorious Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and Vietnam Campaign Medal. In 1973, Jack retired from the Army as a Sergeant First Class. He then worked at a variety of occupations including truckstop manager and office manager for a communications systems company. His retirement years were spent in and around Van Buren.

In addition to his parents, Jack was preceded in death by sisters, Linnie, Betty, and Leta Mae; and brothers, William, Jay, Wayne, Homer, and Bob.

He leaves behind many who knew him including longtime friend, Tom Roosendaal, and good friend and helper, Roy O'Dell. Jack was a believer in Jesus, and we hope to be reunited with him one day for eternity.

Graveside service will be 9:00 a.m. Thursday, February 1, 2024 at the Fort Smith National Cemetery with full military honors, under the direction of Edwards Van-Alma Funeral Home of Van Buren, AR.