Walter Babich

1942 - 2025

Walter Babich, 83

July 27, 1942 – October 23, 2025

Walter Babich, 83, of Coeur d'Alene, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on October 23, 2025. Survived by his beloved wife, Anna, of 31 years. Devoted father of four children: Stephen, wife Steena; Lynn, fiancé Tom Hanslin; Gina, husband Jason Buckley; and Diana. Loving grandfather to Gabriel and uncle to Eugene.

Born in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Walter was raised in nearby Roselle by his mother, Ann. While he never met his father, Walter, who passed away shortly before his birth, he grew up with his deceased older siblings: sister Andrea Dabrowski; brothers Danny, Bobby, and Jimmy O'Brien.

Walter attended Fairleigh Dickinson University on a full academic scholarship and played basketball for four years. After graduating in 1965 with a bachelor's degree in economics, he spent four decades working as a real estate project manager for the federal government in New York City. His family called the New Jersey suburbs home before moving to Idaho upon his retirement in 2007.

Walter was a lifelong Yankees fan who loved playing and watching both baseball and basketball. He also enjoyed traveling the world, taking walks with his wife, eating different cuisines, reading books, and watching the birds on his deck with a view of the lake.

As someone who grew up without a father, Walter found tremendous fulfillment in being a dad. Some of his greatest joys were cheering for his children during their sports games and cooking breakfast for the family.

The Babich family will receive relatives and friends on Thursday, October 30, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joan of Arc, 4772 East Poleline Avenue, Post Falls, for a Requiem Mass celebrating Walter's life and faith as an active member of the parish. The burial will follow at St. Thomas Cemetery, 226 South 23rd Street, Coeur d'Alene.

Visitation at St. Joan of Arc will be Wednesday, October 29, between 4:00-6:00 p.m. with a Rosary Service at 5:00 p.m.

Arrangements are provided by Yates Funeral Home. On-line registry and condolences may be found at www.yatesfuneralhomes.com