Tributes

Ken Batchelor, cherished husband, father, grandfather and friend, 82, passed away peacefully at home on June 25, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. Ken was born on October 26, 1942, in Kermit, Texas, the third youngest of eight siblings. A proud graduate of Kermit High School, he earned a football scholarship to Hardin-Simmons University and later transferred to Sul Ross State University, where he excelled as wide receiver and was named MVP of the AllSports Bowl in 1965. Ken began his professional life in the insurance industry, but soon found his true calling in the automotive business. In 1969, he joined Sewell Village Cadillac, where he quickly distinguished himself as a top salesman. His success led to the opportunity to open his own dealership, and in 1980, Ken Batchelor Cadillac was born. Ken remained a respected leader and fixture at the dealership until his retirement in 2024. Under his leadership, Ken Batchelor Cadillac earned Cadillac’s prestigious Master Dealer award for 38 of his 44 years at the helm. Ken married the love of his life, Sharron, in 2009. They have eight children and fifteen grandchildren between them. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ollie Lee and Clara Mae Batchelor; his brothers Claude, Oliver, David, and Terry Batchelor; and his sister, Bobbie Louise Batchelor. He is survived by his beloved wife, Sharron Batchelor; his children: Eric Batchelor (Julee), Chelsea Batchelor, Colea Podoloff (Mike), Colton Batchelor (Kim), Kendall Batchelor, Greg McDaniel (Tammi), Justin McDaniel, and Tanya Taylor (Jon); his grandchildren: Dax Batchelor, Claire Batchelor, Caroline Batchelor, Clara Podoloff, Caleb Podoloff, Olivia Batchelor, Parker Batchelor, Hunter Batchelor, Taylor McDaniel, Loftin McDaniel, Ashton McDaniel, Triston McDaniel, Savannah Brown, Clayton Taylor (Gracie), Harrison Taylor, and Ava Taylor; his sister Dorothy Petersen (Beau); his brother Mike Batchelor (Kay) and lifelong friend, David McGuire. Ken lived his life with generosity, energy, and dedication to family, friends, and customers. He took pride in wearing a coat and tie every day and greeting customers to ensure they received best possible service. He found joy in creating unforgettable moments—whether it was on father-daughter road trips, hunting adventures, lively dinners with family and friends, or simply sitting around the fire. Ken had a gift for making people feel welcome. His friends came from all walks of life, and he never met a stranger. Whether mentoring young professionals or sharing stories around the table, Ken had a natural ability to connect, lead, inspire and entertain. A proud supporter of his alma mater, Sul Ross State University, Ken was honored with the Slingin’ Sammy Baugh Outstanding Service Award and Distinguished Alumnus Award for his contributions. Ken Batchelor’s life was one of hard work, a lot of fun, deep love, and enduring impact. He had a sense of humor that kept us laughing until the very end. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A memorial service for Ken will be held at Trinity Baptist Church, 319 E. Mulberry Avenue in San Antonio on Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 10:00am. In lieu of flowers, Ken’s family requests that contributions be made in his memory to Sul Ross State University Letterman Foundation ~ https://www.sulross.edu/giving/

Tributes

Kenneth Leon Batchelor

October 26, 1942 - June 25, 2025