Bernard A. Babcock

" Bernard A. Babcock,Sr., 87, of Palmer died Wed after a long illness. Born in Springfield, March 4, 1915. Mr. Babcock grew up in Agawam and was a graduate of its high school. He then lived in Southwick for 42 years before moving to Palmer 10 years ago. He and his wife wintered in Riverview, FL for the past 20 years. He was a former communicant of Our Lady of the Lake Church in Southwick and served as its sexton for many years. After moving to Palmer, he attended St. Thomas Church in Palmer. Mr. Babcock worked for Strathmore Paper Co. in W. Springfield for 40 years, retiring in 1973 as assistant superintendent and was a member of its 25 Year Club. He loved gardening, golfing and dancing, and dabbled in plant breeding. He was also a life time member of the Pioneer Valley Ceramic Assoc, and a long time member of Southwick Lions Club. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Cecile (Bleau) Babcock, a son Bernard A. Babcock, Jr. of Corpus Christi, TX, and 2 daughters Frances B. Allen of Southwick, and Kathleen C. Sacco of Belchertown. He also leaves 3 sisters, Ruth Newell of CT, Helen LaMothe of Belchertown, and Arlene Myers of W. Springfield, along with 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren. Calling hours will be Saturday from 9:30—11:30 a.m. at the Beers & Story Palmer Funeral Home 1475 N. Main St, (Rte. 20) followed by a mass at 12:00 p.m. in St. Thomas Church. Burial will be in Southwick Cemetery in the spring. Donations may be made in his memory to either Palmer Food Share 39 Walnut St, or Palmer Ambulance Service, Shearer St. Ext.Palmer, 01069"