Walter F. Babbin

Walter F. Babbin, Jr. 1923-2011 INDIAN ORCHARD - Walter F. Babbin, Jr., 87, of Indian Orchard, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, January 19, 2011.  Born in Springfield and a life long resident of the Indian Orchard section, he was the son of the late Walter and Mary (Fowler) Babbin.  Walter was a retired employee of the former American Bosch.  He was a member of the  First Congregational Church, now the Orchard Covenant Church of Indian Orchard.  Walter served his country proudly during World War II as an airplane and engine mechanic in the Army Air Corps.  He received the World War II Victory Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal and the American Theater Ribbon.  Walter was a devoted family man.  He loved being outdoors and was an avid Red Sox fan. Walter was a talented carpenter. He enjoyed carpentry throughout his life utilizing and sharing this creative talent with family and friends.  Besides his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Lila Martin and by a grandson Ray Ray Babbin.  He leaves his cherished wife of 61 years, Eleanor R. (Bernard) Babbin, (2) sons, Raymond W. Babbin and Walter F. Babbin, III and his wife Joyce all of Agawam; a daughter, Susan A. Douglas and her husband David of Indian Orchard a brother, Elwood Babbin of CT; (6) grandchildren, (13) great grandchildren and his faithful canine companion Jack.  Funeral services will be held on Friday, January 28, 2011 at the Ratell Funeral Home 200 Main St., Indian Orchard at 10 a.m.  Burial will follow in Hillcrest Park Cemetery, Springfield.  The family will receive relatives and friends at a gathering to be held on Thursday, January 27, 2011 at the Ratell Funeral Home from 6 to 8 p.m.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Baystate VNA & Hospice, c/o Baystate Health Foundation, 280 Chestnut St., Springfield, MA  01104.