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BORN
1942
DIED
2023
Robert Babich Obituary
Robert John Babich of Crest Hill passed away peacefully on March 17, 2023 at the age of 81. Robert (Bob) was born in Joliet, IL on January 21, 1942 to Helen and Joseph Babich, the youngest of three children. After graduating from Joliet Catholic High School in 1960 he went on to become a master barber and was one of the founding barbers, along with his brother Joseph, in Banana Joe's Barber Shop.
Banana Joe's opened on June 26, 1969 and Bob was a permanent fixture there until his retirement on September 14, 2018. Whether it was his VERY early openings of the shop to accommodate 2nd and 3rd shift workers, his daytime catnaps in the chair, or the thousands of "first haircuts" he's given, Bob will always be remembered as Banana Bob. Even in retirement, he regularly would travel to nursing homes and private homes to cut hair for his regulars that couldn't travel.
Bob will be remembered for his large garden, his love of sports (JCA football, Bears, Cubs, racing), his massive 4th of July parties, his larger-than-life personality, and his room filling laugh. He adored his four grandchildren (Robert, Max, Jackson, Allison), and insisted on Sunday morning breakfasts with them every week.
Bob is preceded in death by Joseph and Helen (Vershay) Babich (parents) and Jeanette Tucci (sister).
Bob is survived by his longtime companion Marlene Pagliei; son Robert Babich, grandchildren Robert Babich, Max Babich, Jackson Babich, and Allison Babich; brother Joseph (Mary) Babich; brother-in-law Richard Tucci and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Funeral mass will begin at 10:00 am on Saturday, March 25, 2023 at St. Joseph's Church, 416 N Chicago St, Joliet, with interment to follow at the St Joseph Cemetery in Joliet. Based on Bob's wish for a party to celebrate his life, we will gather to share stories and happy memories from 12-4 PM at Cantigny Post No. 367 VFW, 826 Horseshoe Drive in Joliet following the Interment
Because he was a devout Catholic and active member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Joseph's Catholic Church.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Babich
Jim Kubalewski
March 16, 2024
Bob was always a joyful guy who always made you feel welcome when you came for a haircut. He was interested in his customers and a great listener. My condolences to his family. I am sure you miss him a great deal. May God give him peace and rest forever.
Jim Kubalewski
Jim Kubalewski
March 28, 2023
Bob always had a smile and a positive attitude when I went in for a haircut. He was proud of being an alum of Joliet Catholic High School, and he treated his fellow classmates like brothers. Thanks for bringing light and happiness into this world, Bob. You will be missed. God bless you and keep you. My sincere sympathy to Bob's family.
Jim Kubalewski
Tom dunn
March 24, 2023
Bob was liked by everyone in high school and the rest of his life, easy to see how successful he was.
Bill Hopper
March 23, 2023
Your got your haircut at Joe and Bob's place for the experience as well as the hair cut. Bob was always a lot of fun at the JCHS alumni banquets. RIP
Bill Nurczyk
March 23, 2023
RIP Bob. Three generations of our family sat in your chair. Condolences to your family during this difficult time. You will be missed.
Fr. John Comerford O. Carm.
March 22, 2023
So sorry to hear of your Dad's death. Sorry I won't be able to attend the funeral Saturday. You are all in my prayers.
Jake Jakovich
March 22, 2023
Prayers and condolences to the entire Babich family. We all had the pleasure of getting our flat top haircut in "the chair" at one time or another. A true barbershop where the stories told ,the laughs,etc...One of Joliets great guys!!
frank Barcelona
March 21, 2023
The news of your passing reminded me of our days at Molar barber college, the train rides back and forth from Joliet and Chicago and our mutual respect for our proffession. RIP MY FRIEND
Bill Picha
March 20, 2023
Deepest sympathies to the family. Bob was my barber when I lived in Crest Hill He cut my hair at his dad´s house.
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