James William Babcock, 80, died peacefully on April 15, 2015, at Hospice Franciscan Communities, St. Anthony Hospital, Michigan City, IN. Jim had lived his entire life in LaPorte County and had been recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer.
He was born Nov. 25, 1934, in Michigan City to William L. and Rose (Severins) Babcock.
Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army and after discharge worked as a welder at the Budd Company in Gary and then at Roll Coater in Kingsbury, IN, in the maintenance group, until his retirement in 1999. Jim loved working outside and working with his hands. He was a talented woodcarver and all his families’ homes contain his artworks.
On Jan. 13, 1962, in the Town of Pines, Porter County, Jim married Frances (Fran) Janette Fetters and the couple lived on a grape farm and raised their two daughters, Debra Babcock, now of Michigan City, and Cheryl (Wayne) McGee, now of Walkerton, IN. Also surviving are three granddaughters, Ashley Wolff of Michigan City and Tara McGee and Molly McGee, both of Walkerton; great-grandson, Landon Wolff; and his beloved poodle, Toby, who will miss him dearly.
On Nov. 21, 2013, Jim lost Fran, the love of his life, to lung disease.
His parents also preceded him in death.
A cremation committal has taken place with Cutler Funeral Home and Cremation Center, LaPorte. In honor of Jim’s wishes, a service will not be held.
Memorial contributions may be given to the LaPorte County Small Animal Shelter, 2855 W. Ind. 2, LaPorte, IN 46350.
Messages of condolence may be posted below on WNLP, as well as at www.cutlerfuneralhome.com.