"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance..." (Galatians 5:23-23). Though all these were well evident in brother Bateman, it was his peace, gentleness, and meekness that impressed me most. Christ is present in all believers, prominent in some, but preeminent in very few. And I dare to say that Bob Bateman was one of those very few. His attitude and spirit portrayed the Lord Jesus.

For 12 years (1976-early 1987) Linwood Gospel Chapel was my home church before I left as a missionary to Japan in March, 1988. Linwood, and Lansdowne near Philadelphia were my commending assemblies. Those were 12 precious years, and how quickly they went by as I take the backward look.

Bob’s wisdom, gentleness, and guidance have been very valuable to me, and have made a lasting impression that can never vanish. Brother Bob was meek, but not weak—far from it. When he pointed out mistakes or weaknesses in me, he did so very clearly, but lovingly. And as I look back to those times, I thank God for them. I doubt I can do half as well as he did. And his messages were always a spiritual pleasure and nourishment to me. His messages are a very valuable heritage to me. Bob Bateman was well liked by my late mom and dad as well. He definitely made a spiritual impression on them both.

It was always a great pleasure to se him again on our few visits back to the States.

After I saw the email saying that he had departed us, I went downstairs heavy-hearted for lunch. My wife Megumi asked me what was wrong. I burst into tears and sobbed as I announced that Bob Bateman was called Home. My sisters back in New Jersey expressed their sorrow by email as well. My dear wife also misses him as well, and says it is lonely without him. And so say I.

I know that Bob Bateman would not want me to finish these thoughts without mentioning again the Name that he loved so well—our Beloved Lord Jesus Christ, who “is altogether lovely” (Song of Solomon 5:16). And Bob often began his prayers with “Oh Blessed Lord…” And how the Lord has blessed us with the legacy and memories of our beloved brother Bob Bateman.