Jack K. Babbage

1921 - 2011

Babbage, Jack K.

Ithaca: Jack Kenneth Babbage, age 89, of Ithaca, New York and North Port, Florida, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 3, 2011 at Hospicare. Jack was born in London, England on December 17, 1921, the son of Walter and Ellen Babbage. While a teenager he met the love of his life, Margaret (Peggy) E. Stanbury. In 1939 he enlisted in the Royal Air Force and served six years active duty, part of which was spent in the North African Campaign during WWII. Jack and Peggy married on April 26, 1942 and their son Mark was born in 1946. In 1956, the family immigrated to Toronto, Canada and in 1958 they moved to Ithaca, NY where he and Peggy formed many long lasting friendships in the community. Over the years, Jack worked as a bricklayer and bricklayer foreman. He became Business Agent and Fund Administrator for Bricklayers Local 17 NY, a position he held for eighteen years until his retirement. A devout sports fan, his favorite teams included the NY Giants, NY Rangers and his beloved Tottenham Hotspur. He was an avid golfer and spent as much time as he could on the golf course. During his golfing years, he was a member of Cornell University golf course, the Country Club of Ithaca Club and Newman Golf Course. After retiring, he and Peggy purchased a home in North Port, Florida and spent winters there. Summers were spent in Ithaca and Jack could be found at some point on most days at Newman Golf Course talking sports and politics with his friends. Jack was a devoted and loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather whose greatest joy in life was his family. Jack was predeceased by his wife, Peggy and his parents, brothers and sisters in England. He is survived by his son, Mark Babbage and his wife, Helaine of Ithaca, NY; his grandson, Daniel Babbage (Cathe) of Tully, NY; his granddaughter, Devon Kessler (Kevin) of New Rochelle, NY; five great-grandchildren, Jack and Mary Babbage, and Ethan, Baila and Levi Kessler and family in England. At his request, there will be no services at this time. A memorial celebration of his life will be announced at a later date. Donations may be made in his memory to Hospicare, 172 East King Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. Bangs Funeral Home is assisting the family.