Mary A Bateman, 81, of Edmeston, passed away on Friday June 29, 2018 at Cooperstown Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing in Cooperstown.
Mary was born on May 30, 1937 in Exeter, New Hampshire the daughter of the late Florence and Howard F Allen. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband Richard J. Bateman Sr on May 24, 2017.
She is survived by her children Jeanie (Fenton) Groat, Richard (Barbara) Bateman, Scott (Gina) Bateman James (Lynn) Bateman, and William (Dorothy) Bateman; her grandchildren Chelsea, Haley, Fenton III, Dylan, Christopher, Thomas, Bradley, Dustin, Michaela, Courtney, Sydney, Abigail, Destiny, and Anthony; great grandchildren Blake and Aria. She is also survived by siblings Dorothy Sewall, Joyce Bickford, Margaret Sewall, Linda Newton, and Jolee Chase.
Mary was raised in New Hampshire graduating from Epping High school in 1955. Following high school, she attended the University of New Hampshire Thompson School of Agriculture, graduating in 1957, being the only woman in her class. She was passionate about breeding cattle, and showing horses. She worked on many farms before meeting and marrying her late husband Richard on November 26, 1960 in Stratham, NH.
She won many awards for top showmanship of her horses, and dairy cows. She was member and director of the Dairy Farmers of America, was an active Life Member in the Holstein Association, and is referenced in their history literature. She was also an active 4-H leader in NH, and NY. She had a knack for spotting the potential in livestock, no matter the condition she found them. She knew the “great ones” when she saw them.
She was an inspiration to many youngsters, giving them an opportunity they normally wouldn’t have to care for and show dairy cattle.
At Mary’s request, services will be private, and at the convenience of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be made to the Alzheimers Association North Eastern NY-Leatherstocking Region 140 County Highway 33 West Suite 2 Cooperstown, NY 13326 in memory of Mary. Arrangements are with Delker and Terry Funeral Home 30 South Street Edmeston, New York. To send condolences, visit www.Delkerterryfuneralhome.com or Facebook Delker and Terry Funeral Home.