Denise Batterbee

Denise Karla Batterbee, 45, died of a massive heart attack on October 2, 2015. She was born to Keith and Donna (Bachmann) Batterbee on March 21, 1970. Within a few weeks, older sister Michelle renamed her Pooh Bear, a name those who knew her best always called her. Denise enjoyed traveling. She saw Europe with Michelle as a chaperone for the Ellsworth German class. She was very proud to be treated reasonably well by the French in Paris. A favorite memory was singing "Chapel of Love" as she, her sister, and twenty-some beautiful Ellsworth girls walked the cobblestones of nighttime, in Munich, where Denise's sweet voice echoed off the old German buildings like an angel's, reminding us all she was born to sing. Other travels included cross-country adventures with her sister Michelle, nephew Ethan, and her amicably divorced parents, as they pursued Ethan's ever-changing obsessions. Pooh and Michelle shared the driving while Ethan and dad or mom enjoyed the scenery. She was a woman of immeasurable kindness. Her spiritual heart never failed, though her earthly heart did. She was a rescuer of turtles and a haven for folks who needed love or understanding. Her compassion and gentle presence comforted many and gave them peace. Denise gave much of herself to her work at Second Chance/Armor Express. The body armor she helped make has kept people all over the world safe. As a village council trustee, Denise was a voice of reason, fairness, and humor. Her caring spirit nurtured her mom Donna for many years as Donna's health declined. Denise put much of her own life "on hold" to be her mom's enduring companion. Denise had a quick wit and an unstoppable sense of humor. Through all of life's ups and downs, she and Michelle and their mom and dad found a way to laugh. With Denise died hundreds of inside jokes, shared witticisms, and an entire library of favorite movie quotes and song lyrics. She shared a "humor language" with her ex-husband Mike Arnold, one with her friends, and yet another with her sister. Pooh Bear is survived by her dad Keith; her big sissy Michelle - the other half of her heartbeat; her only nephew Ethan Fox; brother in law Chuck Fox; aunts and uncles Mike and Chris Bachmann, Norm and Marvel Rushton; cousins Rob (Kim) Bachmann, Liz Bachmann, and other close cousins. Also surviving is her companion Matt Seder, ex-husband Mike Arnold, her beloved mini-daschund Dasher, and cats Callie, Emmy, and Oscar. Preceding her in death was her mother Donna Bachmann Batterbee in October 2014. Denise has joined the angels and is likely teaching them how to sing. The family will be receiving friends, Tuesday, October 6, 2015 at the Central Lake Chapel of Mortensen Funeral Homes, from 4 to 7 p.m. A Celebration of Life will be held Wednesday, October 7, at 11 a.m. at the First Congregational Church in Central Lake with Pastor Gary Bekkering officiating. Those wishing to give a memorial donation should consider The Central Lake Food Pantry or With a Little Help From My Friends. Please sign her online guestbook www.mortensenfuneralhomes.