Robert M. Babcock, age 83 of White Cloud, passed away Saturday, May 16, 2009 at his home following a long illness. Bob was born on January 22, 1926 in Bay City, Michigan to Robert D. and Florence (Whalen) Babcock and moved to the White Cloud area at an early age. Bob met and later married Jeannette McDonald on February 19, 1959 in White Cloud and had just celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary. Bob has been a longtime resident of the area where he had been a heating and cooling technician, working for Albright Heating and later Fremont Builders. Bob enjoyed woodworking and working in his woodshop at home and had enjoyed hunting and fishing in his younger years. Bob had been a charter member of the White Cloud Eagles where he volunteered his time as bartender for several years and had also been a volunteer repair technician and inspector for the Department of Human Services. Bob served in the United States Navy during World War II and was a life member of the Newaygo V.F.W. Sportsmans Post #4249. He is survived by his wife, Jeannette of White Cloud; his children, John (Leslie); Diane; Lori (Lloyd); Ron (Pam); Don; Karen; Cheryl (Jeff); Michelle; Wilma; Danette (Scott); several grandchildren; many great grandchildren; his brother, Dan (Dawn) Babcock of Grand Rapids; several nieces and nephews. Bob was preceded in death by an infant daughter; daughter, Judy Patterson; sisters, Lillian Babcock, Helen Lusby and Roberta Noder. VISITATION : Wednesday, May 20, 2009 from 5-8pm at Crandell Funeral Home White Cloud Chapel. FUNERAL SERVICES : Thursday, May 21, 2009 at 11am at the Crandell Funeral Home White Cloud Chapel. INTERMENT : Sherman Township Cemetery. MEMORIAL CONTRIBUTIONS : To his granddaughter, Tammy Tibbe to assist with medical expenses. Friends may send a condolence or share a memory with the Babcock family online at www.crandellfh.com.