Donald “Chuck” Babka
Donald “Chuck” Babka, age 86, 40 year long resident of Western Springs, IL. Born on January 22, 1931 in Chicago, IL. Don graduated from Illinois Institute of Technology in 1969 with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. He was Staff Sergeant Senior Jet Aircraft Electrician from 1948-1952, and was a Korean War Veteran. Don had a 28 year career with International Harvester. Beloved husband of the late Loretta J. (nee Moryl); devoted father of Karen (Leonilo) Bernardino, Donald (Laurie Kelly), and Deborah; proud grandfather of Nicholas and Jonathan Bernardino; uncle to many nieces and nephews. Chuck’s eyes lit up when he sang, and he participated in many church choirs up until the end. He played Santa Claus every Christmas Eve for his children, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. Visitation 2 to 8pm on Sunday, September 17 at Hallowell & James Funeral Home, 1025 W. 55th St., Countryside. Family and friends asked to meet at St. John of the Cross Church, Western Springs on Saturday, September 23 for a Memorial Mass at 11:15am. Interment at Resurrection Cemetery. Memorial donations in Don’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project are appreciated. Funeral info: 708-352-6500
He will be missed dearly! Uncle “Chuckie baby” as I remember calling him as a kid growing up. Many thoughts and prayers to all my cousins. XO
Uncle Chuck, thanks for all the happy memories. From ages ago I have so many fond thoughts. Riverview, backyard cook outs, the “Uncle” card games, Mr. fix it, find a deal/bargain, shopping, cooking, great meals, Santa Claus/Christmas Eves, Dec. 26 at Fields. A roaring laugh, and roaring yell, lordy THOSE were scary! Looonnng days at Disney World, dragging us from Georgia to join you & Loretta and taking” all us” kids. Early morning ’til late night. 2x’s WOW, What a trooper! You and Loretta never missed visiting us at every AF base and then some, from Missouri, Kansas, Georgia,Texas, and finally Maryland, long days just enjoying each others company watching Ollie North sweat it out in the hearings while we sat in the pool eating strawberries. New Years Eve at the casino, champagne from France. Singing nights with Dick Gestner, in the Annapolis night spots. The best of times. We had some great “grown up” trips….Bermuda, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, New Jersey and New York City. I remember working at Harvester during college and crying on your shoulder on a quick lunch break all the way through walking by my side through Dad’s illness. You ALWAYS had my back and were there when I felt overwhelmed. Never a complaint, always an extended hand.
Thanks for sharing your life with us.
You leave a big whole in our universe but a full heart of wonderful memories. Love you forever, Sharon and Tom
Sorry for your loss …a very nice man . I remember working for him through Cleric-all at International Harvester .