Christopher John Batrano

Christopher John Batrano, 51, of Poplar Bluff, passed away Friday, Feb. 7, 2020 at Southeast Hospital after a long battle with ALS, Lou Gehrig’s Disease.  Christopher was born March 6, 1968 in Camden, New Jersey to John and Georgiana Batrano.

Chris was a graduate of Poplar Bluff High School, attended TRC and graduated from the University of Missouri-Columbia Mizzou with a bachelor’s degree in computer science.  He worked for EPM in Fulton, Mo as a systems programmer.  He retired in 2004.

He was diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) at age 28.  He loved music and played the piano and trombone.  Chris started using the computer at a time when he lost the use of his hands.  He composed songs and made two albums one of which was instrumentals called Oasis the other with his brother Michael called Off the Wall.  Also, was creative in writing short stories of family and friends often using bits of humor.

Chris loved watching Mizzou basketball, and football, Patriots and Redsocks games.  He was a “gamer” who played using his computer with family and friends.  It also helped in keeping in touch with everyone.

Chris is survived by his parents and two sons Matthew C. Batrano and wife Anna of San Diego, CA and Nicholas of the home.  His partner, mother of his children and caregiver, Christel Valles his brother Michael Batrano of Nevada City, CA and sister Cynthia McAuley, husband Brendan of Holly Springs, N.C. and two grandsons Roran and Perrin Batrano.

The visitation will be held on Monday, February 17, 2020 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Sacred Heart Church.  A Memorial Mass to celebrate the life of Christopher will begin at 11 a.m. with Father Daniel Robles officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christopher Batrano memorial fund c/o Southern Bank 2992 Oak Grove Rd. P.O. Box 520 Poplar Bluff, MO 63901.