Joseph R. Babcock's Obituary
Joseph R. Babcock, age 77, passed away on August 17, 2024, at home surrounded by his family. He was born on March 19, 1947, to Sidney and Frances (Wcislo) Babcock in Muskegon. Joe was a Veteran of the United States Army doing two tours of duty during Vietnam, while serving as a Specialist in the 591st Engineer Company and was awarded a Purple Heart along with various other medals. He worked as a Supervisor of Operations for ISI/DRB in Ludington, MI before his retirement in 2001. Joe enjoyed traveling to Florida in the winters, fishing, hunting, antiquing, metal detecting, western shows, and spending time with his family. He will also be remembered for being a father figure to many.
On December 18, 1971, he married Rebecca Cook in Muskegon and she survives him along with three children, Brenda (Jeff) Bouwkamp, Kimberly (Cregg) Huey, and Christopher (Angie) Babcock; 9 grandchildren, Morgan, Kendall and Anna Bouwkamp, Connen Ritter, Guy and Ethan Huey, Lucas (Reegan), Reese and Addison Babcock; great-grandchildren, Isabella, Genevieve, Jasper, Scarlett, and Jedsyn; brothers, Chet (Lori) Babcock, Pastor Ken (Sue) Babcock, Steve (Denise) Babcock and Patrick (Debra) Babcock; sisters, Mary (Rod) Zimmer, and Vicki (David) Gustin along with many nieces and nephews. Joe was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Paul Babcock and infant brother, Bruce Babcock; sister, Barb Carney, and grandson, Matthew Ritter.
A MEMORIAL SERVICE with Military Honors will be held 1:00 PM, Thursday, August 22, 2024, at The Sytsema Chapel of Sytsema Funeral and Cremation Services, 737 Apple Ave, Muskegon, MI 49442. VISITATION with the family will be one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Burial will take place at Fort Custer National Cemetery. MEMORIALS can be directed to Harbor Hospice Foundation or the VFW Don Rea Post #8846 in North Muskegon. Share memories with the family at www.sytsemafh.com
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