BOISE, ID — Former Idaho Representative Linden Bateman is being remembered by state leaders for his decades of public service, work in education, and commitment to Idaho’s history.

Bateman served in the Idaho House of Representatives representing Districts 31 and 32 from 1977 to 1986 and later District 33 from 2010 to 2016. He also spent much of his career as a high school teacher, according to the Idaho Department of Education.

In a statement released Thursday, Idaho Superintendent of Public Instruction Debbie Critchfield said Bateman’s experience as an educator shaped his approach to public service and left a lasting impact on Idaho’s educational community. Critchfield noted his support for teaching cursive writing and his belief in helping students understand Idaho’s past as they prepare for the future.

Governor Brad Little also issued a statement following Bateman’s death, describing him as a dedicated public servant and a personal friend. Little said Bateman’s passion for Idaho’s history led him to establish Idaho Day.

U.S. Rep. Russ Fulcher expressed condolences in a separate statement, calling Bateman a thoughtful colleague and a friend who deeply cherished Idaho.

State leaders said Bateman’s combined roles as a lawmaker and educator left a lasting mark on Idaho’s civic and educational landscape.