Batten Bruce B. passed from this life at Kindred Hospital, Dayton, Ohio on April 28, 2016, his family by his side as the angels carried him home to be with the Lord. Born to Margaret McCarty Batten and William Batten on July 26, 1928 in Lakewood, Ohio. Some of his fondest memories of his growing-up years were spent in Pennville, Indiana, with his grandparents, M B and Ida Douth McCarty helping to guide him. Bruce learned about the grocery business working in his grandfather's general store. Bruce proudly served his country with his Army band of brothers during World War II and in Korea. When he returned home from the service, he attended Ohio Northern University. Married to Nona Cruea Bennington in 1954, also becoming a step-father to James Bennington. Jim preceded Bruce to be with the Lord in 1988. Bruce enjoyed his working years mostly in the grocery field, through direct sales and service companies, as well as running his own grocery brokerage business. He was a member of the American Legion for 34 years. Other beloved family members who preceded Bruce in death were his step-father, George Davis (Tipp City) and his brothers, William Batten (Piqua) and Robert Batten (Germantown). Survived by his wife, Nona Batten (Tipp City), daughter Debra Van Horn and son in-law Steven Van Horn (Tipp City), grandson Joshua Keyes (Rochester, Minnesota), granddaughter, Jessica Keyes Lucous and her husband Justin Lucous (Tipp City), great grandchildren, Zakary, Levi and Lyndsey Lucous (Tipp City). Brought up in the Methodist Church, Bruce's favorite hymn was Onward Christian Soldiers. Per his request, the body was cremated. Bruce loved life, and his family will hold a private celebration of his life at a later date. Should a memorial gift be desired, please do so in Bruce B. Batten's memory to the Humane Society of Greater Dayton, 1661 Nicholas Road, Dayton, Ohio 45417. Arrangements have been entrusted to FRINGS AND BAYLIFF FUNERAL HOME 327 W. Main St., Tipp City, Ohio 45371. To leave a condolence or share a memory with the family please visit; www.fringsandbayliff.com