Robert Willard "Murph" Babcock, Sr., age 91, of Albion, passed away on Tuesday, March 3, 2015, at his home with his loving family by his side. He was born on Nov. 14, 1923, in the Town of Albion, son of the late Willard and Winifred (Palmiter) Babcock. He was united in marriage on Jan. 24, 1953, to Joyce Steindl, in Iowa. She preceded him in death on Jan. 1, 2011. He was a member of Central Lutheran Church, Edgerton. Murph was an independent truck driver for Dorsey Trucking, Jim Wileman, Rock River Transport and Severson Transport for many years until his retirement. He enjoyed traveling, collecting hats, tinkering and going to garage sales. He was a past president for the Albion Academy, the sexton for Evergreen Cemetery for over 50 years and was also an usher and greeter at Central Lutheran Church. He was in the United States Army, 35th Regiment, 25th Division, stationed in Otsu, Japan.
Murph is survived by two daughters, Barbara Clark of Edgerton, and Brenda Joyce (Partner, Lynn Mach) Babcock of Albion; one son, Robert (Candy) Babcock Jr. of Edgerton; five grandchildren: Jason Robert (Jes Johnson) Clark, Brandon Clark, Jesi (Chad Vrooman) Benhart, Travis (Jessica) Babcock, Breonna (Chris) Babcock-Pitera; 13-great-grandchildren, Mikayla, Daniel, Justin Robert, Katelyn, Hailey, Robert, Chase Robert, Jensen, Cameryn, Wyatt, Liam, Lucas Robert and Charolette Joyce; several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by one son, Daniel Robert; and three sisters, Betty, Lois and Janice.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Monday, March 9, 2015, at Central Lutheran Church, Edgerton, with the Rev. James M. Johnson officiating. Burial will be in the Fassett Cemetery. Full Military services will be held at the cemetery by the Edgerton Memorial Squad.
