Clarksville Obituary: Clarence Owen Bateson

Longtime chiropractor and pilot dies at 84

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Dr. Clarence Owen 'Buck' Bateson, a Doctor of Chiropractic who served in the U.S. Navy and had a passion for aviation, passed away on February 14, 2026 at the age of 84 in Southside, Tennessee. Bateson led a life full of accomplishments, including a successful 53-year chiropractic career, earning recognition as a Chiropractic Orthopedic Specialist, and an extensive aviation hobby that included becoming a flight instructor, air race participant, and aerobatic air show performer.

Why it matters

Bateson's life story highlights the remarkable accomplishments and adventurous spirit of a man who dedicated himself to serving his country, building a successful career, and pursuing his passions. His passing marks the end of an era for the Clarksville community, which has lost a respected medical professional and aviation enthusiast.

The details

After serving in the U.S. Navy, Bateson graduated from the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic in 1968 and went on to have a 53-year career as a Doctor of Chiropractic, earning recognition as a Chiropractic Orthopedic Specialist. Outside of his medical work, Bateson was an accomplished pilot, receiving his private pilot certificate in 1970 and going on to become a flight instructor, air race participant, and aerobatic air show performer.

  • Bateson was born on November 18, 1941 in Sewickley, Pennsylvania.
  • He served in the U.S. Navy aboard the USS Providence CLG-6, which took him to Yokosua, Japan.
  • Bateson graduated from the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic in 1968.
  • He received his private pilot certificate in 1970.
  • Bateson passed away on February 14, 2026 at the age of 84 in Southside, Tennessee.

The players

Dr. Clarence Owen 'Buck' Bateson

A Doctor of Chiropractic who served in the U.S. Navy and had a passion for aviation, including becoming a flight instructor, air race participant, and aerobatic air show performer.

Susan Elizabeth Bateson

Bateson's late wife.

Victoria Amero

Bateson's daughter.

Anthony Amero

Victoria Amero's husband.

Joanne Kelsey

Bateson's sister.

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The takeaway

Bateson's life was a testament to the power of dedication, service, and pursuing one's passions. His remarkable career as a chiropractor and his adventurous spirit as a pilot left a lasting impact on the Clarksville community, and his passing marks the end of an era for those who knew and admired him.