Bruce A. Batten, 68, of Silvis, IL, passed away Thursday, June 27, 2024, at his home in Silvis, with his wife Chris by his side after a short battle with Cancer.

A Celebration of Bruce's life will be held at a later date. Van Hoe Funeral Home, East Moline, is assisting the family with arrangements. Memorials may be made to Animal Aid Humane Society, Moline, IL.

Bruce was born June 8, 1956, in Moline, Illinois, a son of Richard and Julia Ames Batten. He graduated from Moline High School, Class of 1974 and later from Black Hawk College. Bruce enjoyed childhood camping trips with his parents and brother Brad and especially the wonderful years they spent fishing and camping at their cabin in Bagley Wisconsin. Bruce loved fishing, boating, camping and hanging out on the beach. Bruce truly loved his friends and family deeply, was kind and soft-hearted with a dry sense of humor.

Bruce was known to have a soft spot for pet Cats over the years, his Cat Parker was at his side at his passing. Anyone who knew Bruce saw his love of fishing which he took quite seriously. He would at times scold us for scaring away the fish but loved to teach others the joys of this hobby. Bruce was a lifelong Bears and Cubs fan.  Bruce was an avid gardener, and thoroughly enjoyed being out in nature. Bruce always fed the squirrels daily and had numerous birdfeeders that brought him great joy.

Bruce married Christine "Chris" L. Brown on March 11,2006, in Rock Island, Illinois. Bruce and Chris met by chance in 1996 and this love blossomed over 28 years.

Bruce was able to retire from Bettendorf Office Products about 4 years ago and thoroughly embraced being able to be home with his hobbies. The family would like to give a special thanks to Tim and Lisa Carpentier for caring so much for Bruce and Chris, it made such a difference during this difficult time. Thanks to all who had Bruce and Chris in your prayers we are forever thankful.

Surviving are his wife, Chris, of Silvis, IL; brother and sister-in-law, Bradley (Merrilee) Batten, Dixon, IL; niece, Lara Batten and fiancé Timothy Holtz, Chicago, IL; nephew, Ryan Batten, Chicago; mother-in-law, Jeanette  Forsberg and sister-in-law, Cheryl Brown, both of East Moline, IL, brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jon (Wendy) Forsberg, and their children, Jack and Ava, all of Plainfield, IL.

Bruce was preceded in death by his parents, Richard and Julia.

Online condolences may be expressed at vanhoe.com