Robert C. Babcock

Robert C. Babcock, 101, of Rockford, IL died at on November 12, 2022. Born May 19, 1921 Beloit, WI, the son of Claude E. and Mary Frances (McCabe) Babcock.

Robert fought in the Battle of the Bulge as the lead tank driver for 22nd Armored Tank Battalion of the 11th Armored Division of Patton’s 3rd Army. He was awarded a Bronze Star for Heroism, at the Battle of the Bulge and in early May, 1945, he participated in the liberation of Mauthausen Concentration Camp. On August 23, 1947, he married the love of his life Jean Foiles. Robert had a long career as an Insurance Salesman with Country Financial and in 1966 was named West End Businessman of the Year. He was a member of Life Underwriters Rockford Association and the Illinois State Underwriters. He was the announcer for 30 years for Boylan Titan Football Games, coached many youth in Baseball at Roy Gayle and was named the 1977 Boylan Titan of the Year. Robert also served as the 2007 President of the 11th Armored Division of Patton’s 3rd Army Association. Never one to stay still for long, Robert will hold a special place in the hearts of all that knew him.

Robert is survived by his loving wife of 75 years, Jean; children, Ron (Peggy), Brian (Kathy), Ray (Robin), Ken (Monica), Jeff (Julie) and Nancy;15 grandchildren;11 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Florence Popanz, Miriam Babcock, and Beth Partridge; brother Richard Babcock and infant daughter, Cynthia.

Special thank you to the Staffs at Siena on Brendenwood, Bickford of Rockford, and Hospice of OSF for their care of Bob over the last years of his life.

Visitation will be on Friday, November 18, 2022, from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Fitzgerald Funeral Home and Crematory – Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, IL 61103. Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 19, 2022 at St Patrick Catholic Church, 2505 School Street, Rockford, IL 61101. Interment to follow at Calvary Catholic Cemetery in Winnebago, IL. Memorials may be made in Robert’s name to Boylan Catholic High School. Arrangements entrusted to Fitzgerald Funeral Home & Crematory, Riverside Chapel, 3910 N. Rockton Avenue, Rockford, IL, 61103. To extend condolences or share memories please visit www.fitzgeraldfh.com.