Alois M. Batz

Alois Batz, beloved Husband, Father and Teacher, passed away this April 2020.

He is predeceased by his first wife, Rusty and survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Linda Batz, his two children Skip and Cricket, son-in-law Steve, sister Diana, nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews and his adopted rescue dogs.

He was a loving husband, a scientist, teacher, writer, runner and philosopher-king. Those lucky to have known Al Batz knew his kindness, intelligence and wonderful sense of humor. He had a big heart and was a “foster-father” and served as “grandfather” for many. His house was always filled with those who loved him.

Al was the son of two German immigrants, Alois and Berta Batz. He grew up in rough and tumble Jersey City and worked in his family’s bakery. He was a prankster in his youth and too smart for his own good, as evidenced by his varied college career. Nonetheless, he graduated from Rutgers University and became a professional chemist. In 1970, he decided to leave the industry to become a science teacher at Hunterdon Central High School where he taught physics, chemistry and biology for over 25 years. Al taught like a friendly, quirky college professor and students adored him - some keep in touch to this day.

He was also a wonderful father to his two children (though he liked to doubt that). In his forties, Al became a marathon runner, qualifying for the Boston Marathon and running 3:00 hours!

When his beloved wife Rusty died of cancer in 1988, Al was heartbroken. Linda, who was a fellow teacher, suggested they run together to ease his grief. Romance blossomed and her love saved his life. Linda also encouraged him to keep writing “The Great American Novel”. The next 30 years were a new “lease on life” for which he enjoyed travel with Linda - especially to his happy place in Cancun and their apartment in New York - and lived life to the fullest.

Alois Martin Batz died a month shy of his 81st birthday. He loved a good party - especially one with live music and decent beer. Once we can gather again, we will celebrate his life and place his ashes in our family circle of trees.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Safe Harbor Child Access Center, 171 Main St., Flemington, NJ 08822 and Watchung Mountain Poodle Club Rescue, c/o Anita Mc Kenna, 8 Knoll Tavern Road, Flemington, N J 08822.

Arrangements are under the direction of the Holcombe-Fisher Funeral Home, 147 Main Street, Flemington, NJ.

For further information or to leave an online condolence we invite you to visit www.holcombefisher.com.