Anthony Bateman
Long-time resident Anthony (Tony) Bateman died suddenly at his Ajijic home on Saturday, February 25 at age 68.
Born in New York City, Bateman first came to Ajijic as a young boy when his parents rented a bungalow from the retired ballerina known as Zara Alexeyewa “La Rusa” in the summer of 1952. The family returned for summer holidays over the next few years before purchasing property in Ajijic in 1957 to build a home and settle permanently.
Bateman studied grammar school at Grace Church in New York City, middle school in Chapala and prep school in Guadalajara before enrolling at Carlisle & Gregson’s Academy in London, England.
Returning to Ajijic as an adult, Bateman and his elder brother took on management of the local soccer team for several years during a stellar period when the players were accepted into the reserves of the Primera División (first division) league. They competed against reserves of the renowned Chivas and Atlas teams and gained a chair in the Jalisco Soccer Association.
In his professional life, Bateman worked as an art dealer specializing in the trade of well-known Mexican artists. He maintained long-lasting bonds of friendship with Ajijic’s populace throughout his life, earning respect and esteem for his generosity and assimilation in village life.
He was preceded in death by his brother Christopher (Kit) in 1991, father Jack in 1999 and mother Laura in 2004. He is survived by his sisters Alice Vanderzyl of Fort Worth, Texas; Elizabeth Sola of Paris, France; Alejandra Bateman of Ajijic; and six nieces and nephews, including Sofia and Azucena Bateman Campos of Ajijic. He was remembered at a celebration of Mass held March 3 at the San Andrés Church. A memorial service will be planned at a future date.
Royston Seaman
Royston Seaman died at the age of 81 following a hit-and-run accident while crossing the street Thursday, February 23 in Ajijic. Seaman was wintering here with his friend, Lynette Enevoldsen.
He is predeceased by his beloved wife Betty Ann and survived by his sons Steven (Lise), Michael and David (Hugh Faulkner) and his grandchildren Christopher, Jonathan and Victoria. A tribute will be organized in Knowlton, Quebec City in the spring. Memorial contributions can be made to the Brome County Historical Society, 130 Lakeside Rd, Knowlton, QC, J0E 1V0 (450) 243-6782.