George Raymond Bateman

Bridgewater, NJ

George Raymond Bateman, 72, of Bridgewater, NJ, passed away on Friday, September 6, 2024 at RWJ Hospital in Somerville. Born in Plainfield, NJ, George resided in Bridgewater for 70 years.

George graduated from Bridgewater Raritan High School East, Class of 1970. During high school George began working at the Somerset Press, Inc. as a Pressman for the Somerset Messenger Gazette, where he continued until his early 30s. He had many fond memories and lifelong friendships from his time at the press. George continued his education at Cook College at Rutgers University where he received a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Science. He worked for nearly 40 years in Water Treatment as an Environmental Plant Manager, most recently at Ground Water Treatment & Technologies, LLC.

Throughout his life, George gave generously of his time as a volunteer in the community. He was both a deliberate thinker and a doer. He was active with the Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership where he helped with cleanups, boat building, etc., Glenwood Terrace Pool where he served as Chairman and Certified Pool Operator for over 15 years, Glen Ridge Pool where he was the Head of Pool and Grounds since 2021, and the Bridgewater Municipal Republican Organization.

George was young at heart–he had a quiet demeanor and a boyish smile. He loved being outside, whether it was gardening, canoeing, swimming, or hiking, especially at the North and South Branches of the Raritan River, and his beloved Pleasant Pond in Maine. He enjoyed taking long walks with his faithful canine companions.

George was a kind soul and had a positive attitude. He was always there to offer his help or sweet encouragement. George's pride and joy were his family and grandchildren. He cherished every moment with them. He was an active father and sports coach to his sons, and a doting and involved Grandpa, including proud preschool helper.

He is preceded in death by his beloved parents, Jeanne and Charles Palmer Bateman Jr.

Surviving are his loving wife, Claudia Levin Bateman, two dear sons, Benjamin L. and wife Jessica Bateman, Gabriel G. Bateman and fiancée Alyssa Smorra, two brothers, Bruce and wife Gig Bateman, Doug and wife Donna Bateman, a sister, Carol and husband David Silverman, three cherished grandchildren, Charlotte, Emery, and Davin Bateman, numerous nieces and nephews, and his beloved pup, Honey.

A viewing will be held on Saturday, September 14, 2024 from 1pm-5pm with service starting at 4pm at the Branchburg Funeral Home, 910 Rt. 202 South, Branchburg, NJ 08876. Committal is private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in George's memory to Lower Raritan Watershed Partnership https://lowerraritanwatershed.org/, Easter Seals https://www.easterseals.com/, or Travis Manion Foundation https://www.travismanion.org/.