Rest in Peace

Steve Batlin, a member of St. Alban's, died on Tuesday, July 16, 2024.  Please hold his family and friends in your prayers.

Into your hands, O merciful Savior, we commend your servant Steve.

Acknowledge, we humbly beseech you,

a sheep of your own fold, a lamb of your own flock,

a sinner of your own redeeming.

Receive him into the arms of your mercy,

into the blessed rest of everlasting peace,

and into the glorious company of the saints in light. Amen.

Stephen Joseph Batlin, born in San Francisco, age 74, embarked on his grandest voyage yet on Tuesday, July 16th. For this final journey, Steve’s bags were packed with a lifetime of memories and adventures, wrapped carefully in an abundance of love by his family and blessings from his church and chaplains. Seeing him off from his home in Austin were his wife, Allison, and his daughter, Crystal Batlin. Also present for Steve’s final farewell, was his dearest and lifelong friend, Christian Gruden. Steve is survived by his two grandchildren, Mason and Miles, his brother Greg Batlin, and Sisters, Lynn Keener and Joya Perry.

Steve always looked towards the next exploration, with travels that spanned the globe. Riding planes, trains, and automobiles were not enough for Steve. He also rode camels in Namibia, elephants in Thailand, played with lion cubs in South Africa, and swam with sharks in Fiji. Steve’s story of exciting travels did not stop here though. What excited Steve most in his travels, was leaving a footprint behind in each country he visited. Steve would do this by improving the quality of lives for those he visited, raising funds for schools, money for medical care, helping create grants for orphanages and disabled children’s homes.

In Austin, Steve was known as a wine connoisseur, a restauranteur, owner of Dan McKlusky’s Steak House, and part owner of Louie’s 106 and Baby Louie’s. He was a father figure to anyone needing love and guidance, a genuine friend to all. Steve took every opportunity he could to take one’s mistakes and create teachable moments. He genuinely loved helping those he cared for turn into the best version of themselves. He was a man known for his dedication and love for his family as well as his friends.

Celebration of Life for Steve will be held at St. Albans Episcopal Church on Saturday, August 17th, followed by a reception in Steve’s home. In lieu of flowers, we ask for donations to South Austin Rotary, ear marked for Mickie’s Soup Kitchen, address is South Austin Rotary Club, c/o Jim McComb, 2507 Braemar Cove, Austin, Texas 78747. This was a very special place for Steve where he valued each moment as he served the needy and homeless. Through your donation, he will be able to continue to do so.