James M. Babcock, 88, of Sandy Creek, NY, and more recently of Norwich, NY, passed away with family by his side on Sunday, July 3, 2016 at the New York State Veterans' Home in Oxford, NY. Born on July 24, 1927 in Altmar, NY, James was the son of James and Elsie Mae (Freeman) Babcock. He attended Altmar schools until joining the Army. James later served in the Marine Corps during the Korean Conflict where he was honorably discharged. Following his service in the military, James returned to the family farm where he helped his father with the daily chores. He then began a long career in logging followed by employment with the Orwell Department of Transportation. He then joined the New York State Department of Transportation doing road work and construction for many years until his retirement. On December 27, 1970, James married his wife of 45 years, Donna Mae Stowell, who survives. He is also survived by his two daughters, Tracy of Norwich, and Christina and her husband, Scott Utter, also of Norwich; two sons, Terrence Babcock and his wife, Janet, and Jonathan Babcock; two step-sons, Faron Cronk and his wife, Julie, and James Cronk; as well as grandchildren Morgan, Loretta, Archie, Terri Shyan, Justin, and Shannon and her husband, Jake. Two great grandchildren also survive; Tyler and Alexis. James loved fishing and hunting. He often took long drives along the countryside looking for deer and places to hunt. He was especially fond of long car rides with his dear wife, Donna Mae. Burial for James will take place in Riverside Cemetery, Altmar, NY at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 8. Memorial contributions in memory of James may be made out to the New York State Veterans' Home in Oxford, 4207 State Highway 220, Oxford, NY 13839; or a chairity of one's choice Funeral arrangments have been entrusted with the Wilson Funeral Home.

Published in Syracuse Post Standard from July 6 to July 7, 2016