Marie Batdorf

Murrieta resident, Marie Batdorf, died on Sunday, July 10, at the age of 84. Marie was preceeded in death by her son Robert Batdorf.Marie Louise Giali-Batdorf was born July 22nd, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois to loving parents Grace and Joseph Giali. She was the second of three children, her brother Carmine was the oldest and her brother Joseph, the youngest. Originally from Sicily, her parents came to the United States in pursuit of the American Dream. During the early years of Marie’s life, her parents passed on their love of family, God and Country to her and her brothers. It was during World War 2 that Marie graduated High School and went on to become a secretary for the United States Government. During that time she worked with with many high ranking officials in the Military who appreciated her intelligence and excellent work ethic. On October 13th, 1945 Marie would meet the love of her life at a dance at the Trianon Ballroom in Chicago. She caught the eye of a young handsome sailor, Harry Batdorf, on leave at the dance. Throughout the night he followedMarie around, working up the courage to speak to her. Finally, he brought himself to ask her if she’d like to dance with him. Her response was quick and full of wit, “Yes, just not with you.” Harry was not discouraged and, by the end of the night, Marie granted him his request. The rest is history. The two married September 11, 1948, a marriage that would last 62 long, loving years. Through the years, they were blessed with children Robert, Linda and Patricia. The family remained in Chicago until 1956 when they relocated to California to be in a warmer climate. The family first moved to Ontario, but Marie and Larry would find their home among their family and friends in Murrieta, California in 1992. Marie was a tremendously loving woman, who blessed all those she was around throughout her entire life. She was a loving wife and mother, daughter and aunt. Her kindness was second to none and she would give openly without the thought of return. Her devout love for the Lord Jesus Christ wasshown through her constant involvement in Bible Study Fellowship, being both a leader and teacher for many years, and throughout her everyday life. She was active and loved entertaining family and friends was never afraid to tell us or those when she felt you needed it. She never neglected to tell what you did right and how much she loved you. Marie was blessed with 6 grandchildren, and their spouses. Joshua 35, her first grandson, and wife Kari. Ryan 34, and wife Madoka, Matthew 31, and wife Merra, Sara Grace 27, and husband Darrell, Megan 26 and Zachary 25. She was a vital part of her Grandchildren's everyday lives, teaching them many of life's lessons, helping shape them into who they are today. The love shown between Marie and her Grandchildren and their Spouses was unconditional.Marie also had 2 Great Granddaughters, Peyton Nancy Marie, 6 years and Ella Louise, 21 months. The smile and joy they brought to her was unequivocal.Marie's legacy of unwavering love and kindness will live on in the many generations she helped build. Visitation will be at England Family Chapel on Monday, July 18, from 5:30 until 8:00pm. A celebration of her life will be at our chapel on Tuesday, July 19, at 10:30am. She will be buried at Riverside National Cemetery at 1:00pm. Services: 10:30AM at England Family Mortuary on Tuesday, July 19th, 2011 (map/driving directions) Cemetery: Riverside National Cemetery 22495 Van Buren Blvd Riverside, CA 92518 (map/driving directions)