John C. Babcock

John C. Babcock, 81, of Bristol, Indiana, passed away peacefully surrounded by his children at his home on Monday, March 2, 2026.

Born on May 23, 1944, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to Clark and Irene (Nelson) Babcock, John grew up with strong Midwestern roots. A 1963 graduate of LaGrange High School, he spent many years living and working in both LaGrange and Elkhart counties. Over the course of his career, he owned and operated Overhead Door and later Superior Performance Transport, taking great pride in the work he built and the people he served.

John was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching nearly any game, but he especially loved baseball and women's basketball – never missing a chance to cheer on Caitlin Clark. He treasured time spent with his family, often gathered around a good meal. He also found joy in the simple beauty of the changing seasons, with fall being his favorite as he watched the trees turn vibrant colors.

Surviving are his four daughters, Lisa Grise of Bristol, Indiana, Heather (Matt) Hartman of Wheaton, Illinois, Jaccinda (Bryan) Nelson of Vandalia, Michigan, and Michel (Dan) Curth of Glen Ellen, Illinois; two sons, John Spencer (Jen) Babcock of Bristol, Indiana, and Michael Babcock of Bristol, Indiana; a daughter-in-law, Kathy Babcock of Carmel, Indiana; 15 grandchildren; and his beloved chocolate lab, Molly – his loyal "60 percenter."

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Jeffrey Babcock; and his sister, Mary Ann Nelson.

Visitation will be held on Monday, March 9, from noon until the service begins at 2 p.m. at Frurip-May Funeral Home, 309 W. Michigan St., LaGrange, Indiana. Pastor Dwight Kauffman will officiate. Burial will follow at Greenwood Cemetery in LaGrange.

Condolences may be shared with the family at www.fruripmayfuneral home.com.