Nick Babich Jr

Nick Babich Jr. passed away unexpectedly on January 30, 2019 in Williams, Oregon.

Nick was born August 31, 1934 in the small town of Shinnston, West Virginia. He came from humble beginnings; his father Nikola Babich was a coal miner and his mother, Mildred Ayres, waited tables.

From 1952-1956 Nick Babich served in the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Anchorage, Alaska and was in the USAF 18th Fighter-Interceptor Squadron. Nick was an aircraft mechanic. Members in this company would refer to themselves as “wing walkers.” He would advance to the rank of Senior Airman. Nick enjoyed serving in the Air Force and said “it was the best thing that ever happened to him.”

He was honorably discharged in 1956 from active military duty. He then attended Los Angles Pierce College and later University of Southern California. Nick continued to serve in the Air Force Reserve in Oxnard, California while also working at Rocketdyne in Conaga Park, California as an engineering technician.

He received his associate’s degree in sociology, bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, and master’s degree in public administration. Instead of pursuing a career in engineering at Rocketdyne, he decided to seek a career in the justice system. He met his future wife, Loretta Kroeker, in Oxnard, California and they married June 28, 1957. For the next few years, Nick began his career in Los Angeles County Social Services. In 1966, Nick and Loretta moved to Ventura, California. Nick accepted a position as a probation officer in Ventura County. This was his career until retiring in 1991.

Nick and Loretta moved to Williams, Oregon in 1992 for a quieter life. Nick became a volunteer for Williams Fire Rescue. He was also active in Williams Community Church.
Nick is survived by his daughter; Nicolet Cohn; granddaughters; Serina Britt; Cherise Britt and her husband Neal Trump.

Nick was preceded in death by his loving wife Loretta and parents Nikola and Mildred Babich.
In lieu of flowers or cards, memorial contributions may be made to Williams Community Church, 228 E. Fork Rd., Williams, Oregon 97544.