Howard Babcock

Howard R. Babcock of Rockford Michigan was reunited with his heavenly family on February 19, 2025 at the age of 98. He joins his wife of 70 years, Wilda M. Babcock; his father, Ray; mother, Luella; and siblings: Walter, Richard, Leah, Hugh, Mildred, Marge, Betty, and Gordy.

He is survived by his sisters: Donna Sayer, and Evelyn  Blaisdell; children: Halden (Vicky) Babcock, Gene (Roxanne) Babcock, and David (Tina) Babcock; grandchildren: Christine Babcock, Rusty (BJ) Babcock, Ryan Babcock, Ryder Babcock, Monica (Collin) Babcock/Proksch, Sylvia (Nick) Brzeski, and Tyler (Stephanie) Babcock; seven great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews, and cousins. 

Born 8-18-1926, Howard graduated from Hastings High School in 1944. He served his country during World War II training dogs in Nebraska’s US Army, 48th Infantry-Scout Dog Platoon. He worked driving trucks for Associated Truck Lines until his retirement in 1986.

Among Howard’s interests were flying, fishing, hunting, square dancing, Ham radio and farming. He had a love of tractors and old engines. Howard loved his family and shared with each of them a sense of humor that made for interesting times. He built a home and moved his family to his long time residence on Jericho in Rockford in 1961 where he resided for sixty-four years. He saw many changes to the Rockford area in his lifetime.

A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later time to be announced. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Corewell Health Hospice or the charity of your choice.