William “Bill” Babcock, 79

William “Bill” D. Babcock, 79, husband of Carolyn A. (Lanuti) Babcock, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 28, 2023, at his home in Gilbertsville, surrounded by family.

Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, he was the son of the late James and Mary (Pictor) Babcock.

Bill proudly served in the United States Marine Corp and was a Vietnam Veteran. He was a First Lieutenant and piloted a CH-46 Sea Knight Helicopter, where he mostly flew medivac missions and transported troops. During his more than 700 combat hours he was awarded a Bronze Star as well as 46 air medals for his heroic services. Upon returning to the states, Bill was a T-28 Trojan flight instructor.

Bill loved Notre Dame Football and Indiana Hoosier Basketball and playing golf. Playing cards was almost a nightly event. Family was everything to Bill. He loved spending time with them and bringing his family together through his large dinners and hosting family reunions especially at Lake Michigan.

Surviving along with his wife Carolyn of 53 years, are his sons Michael D. Babcock, husband of Luz; and Steven J. Babcock, husband of Jacquelyn; sisters Jeanne Cantaro, wife of Magno; Barbara Martinez, wife of the late Stephen “Marty”; Betsy Jackson, wife of Jim; and Debbie Bonifer, wife of Joe; grandchildren Andrew, Nataliya, Mason, Aidan, Jaxon and Carina; and numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. He is predeceased by his brother James “Jimmy” Babcock, husband of Nancy; sister Mary Ellen Babcock; and brother Robert “Bob” Babcock.

A memorial service will be held on Friday, September 22, 2023, at 12:00 Noon at Catagnus Funeral Home (329 N. Lewis Rd., Royersford, PA 19468) with Deacon Jim Nash officiating. Military Honors will follow. Burial will be held privately by the family at a later date. Visitations will be held on Thursday, September 21, 2023, from 6:00-8:00PM and on Friday, September 22, 2023, from 10:00AM-12:00 Noon at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Marine Corps Heritage Foundation https://www.marineheritage.org/makedonation.html in Bill’s name.

Add My Condolences

Rest in peace Uncle Bill. Lord, please keep Carol, Michael, and Steve close to you and give them the courage and strength to make it through today, the rest of the year, and always. Uncle Bill, of course you had to see the Irish beat Navy in Ireland on August 26th one more time before you went up to meet Coach Rockne.

Love ya,
Javier and Gina Zuluaga

p.s. #GoNavy, #SemperFi

~ Javier Zuluaga
9/22/2023 2:55:44 PM

Thinking of the Babcock family today. Prayers to Carol, Michael and Steve and families who are surely missing Bill today and everyday. Love you all so much.

~ Melanie Paszkiewicz
9/22/2023 10:40:16 AM

As a class mate and friend, I always remembered the fun time we had together. His “famous” photo in his military uniform has always been something I have remembered. Please know that the class of ‘62 from Cathedral H.S. send their prayers and applaud Billy’s history. I’m sure God has a million questions to ask Bill!! Rest in pease my good friend!!!

~ Bob Desautels Indianapolis, IN
9/8/2023 10:30:48 AM

On November 17, 1969 Bill was my wingman on Medivac. I picked up 7 emergency Medivacs & when I was forced down after taking 23 hits on my bird. Bill picked up me, my crew & the Medivacs & took us all to the Da Nang field Hospital. Thank you Bill. Semper Fidelis!
May Bill’s Memory be Eternal & His Soul Rest with the Saints.
God Bless the family. Our prayers are with you. ?????? Don

~ Don Esmond
9/5/2023 12:53:54 AM

God, Bill did his duty without complaint. Simper Fidelis

~ Pete Hanner
9/3/2023 11:19:03 AM

We’ll miss you Bill. Rest in peace.

~ Tyler G
9/3/2023 7:30:12 AM

On 28 November 1969, I, as a brand new 2ndLt co-pilot, was with “Babs”, as we called him,when we took enemy fire. He was a master pilot. I learned so much from him and we became fast friends. My heart breaks to hear of his passing. I just pray to God that we can reunite in time. ( I wrote about babs and his airmanship. In The Grotto Book One!
Semper Fi

Harold Walker

~ LtCol Harold Walker USMC (Ret) Geneva, IL
9/2/2023 6:39:58 PM

Steve,
Your Father was a very special man from all I read. Keep him in your heart and remember all
the wonderful moments you shared.

~ Karl Rother Fairless Hills, PA
9/1/2023 3:21:25 PM

Rest in peace, Bill. Prayers for your family. I have great love for my brother Aviators who flew with The Tigers of HMM-262!

~ Michael Mullen
9/1/2023 3:06:15 PM

My heartfelt prayers and sympathy goes out to the Babcock Family. Cherish the memories.
I

~ Sharon Banks
9/1/2023 12:35:16 PM

Rest peacefully Mr. Babcock

~ Steve Mason Scranton, PA
9/1/2023 10:08:19 AM

What a truly amazing life… I am sure he will be dearly missed, but what a guardian angel to have watching over his family. God bless

~ Joe Upholzer Strongsville, OH
8/31/2023 9:43:54 PM

Another Veteran going home, Thank you for your service to our country Bill RIP, Sir.

~ Henry Smith Gray, GA
8/31/2023 9:10:18 PM

Sending you off to the love of those who have gone before you. Peace, Billy. Rest well, knowing you have left a legacy of love behind. ????????

~ Jeanne and Magno Cantaro
8/31/2023 9:05:06 PM