Babcock, Keith Everett

Keith Everett Babcock of San Marcos, Calif., went to be with the Lord Oct. 12, 2013, after a long illness and complications from polycythemia vera and Parkinson's disease.

Born Dec. 6, 1930, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Keith grew up in Cedar Rapids, graduating from Roosevelt High School in 1949. He married his high school sweetheart, Pat, in 1951. They were married 62 years.

Keith served in the Navy from 1950-1954.

He worked for Hometown Dairy, the fire department and the post office in Cedar Rapids before transferring to Escondido, Calif., in 1969, then retiring in 1986, after 31 years of service with the postal service.

Keith is survived by his wife, Pat; two daughters, Pam (Rocky Sowders) and Julie (Terry Patterson); seven grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

Keith was a great family man, husband, father, grandfather and true friend.

His passions were gardening, fishing, golfing, bowling, enjoying family celebrations and going to the casino.

Keith never met a stranger, always had a smile and a hello.

Keith was preceded in death by his dad (Marion), mom (Lucille), brother (Jack) and grandson (Israel).

Published Nov. 24, 2013 in The Gazette