Robert E. Babbitt

Robert Edward “Bob” Babbitt died on April 12, 2013 at his home in Oak Harbor at the age of 84. Bob was born June 19, 1928 in Kansas City, Missouri to George and Dixie Babbitt. He graduated from North East High in Kansas City and entered the U. S. Navy in August of 1945. He was married to Edith Widman in Seneca, Kans, on February 27, 1954.

During his military career, he was stationed in California, Texas, Kansas, Rhode Island, Florida, Kwajalein Island, Japan and finally to NAS Whidbey in 1969. He retired from the Navy on September 1, 1975 as an ATCS.

Bob was not one to sit back in retirement and he soon began work at the Texaco Refinery, where he worked until 1989.

Bob was a member of the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge #2362, the Fleet Reserve Association, Branch 97, the American Legion, George Morris Post 129, All Three War Veterans of America and a Lifetime Member of the North Whidbey Sportsman Association.

Bob is survived by his wife Edith and by three children and their spouses; Mari Lea Winn (Greg), Janice Ray (David), Mark Babbitt (Natalie) and by 10 grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Funeral Mass for Bob Babbitt was celebrated at St. Joseph of Cupertino Chapel, NAS Whidbey Island with CDR. Jerry Kienzle, CHC, USN (Ret.) as Celebrant. Burial with full military honors will follow at 1:15pm on Tuesday, April 23, at Tahoma National Cemetery in Kent, Wash.

In lieu of flowers, you may make a donation to the Elks Children’s Therapy Fund in Bob’s name. He had a special place in his heart for the children that this fund helped. You may also make a donation to the charity of your choice in Bob’s name. Either of these options would be a blessing to the family.

Friends and family are encouraged to offer condolences and share memories utilizing the memory book hosted by Wallin Funeral Home at www.wallinfuneralhome.com