OBITUARY: Emil Babich, World War II Vet

Emil S. Babich, 87, of Milton, NJ, passed away at his home with his family by his side on May 19.

He was born in Ridgefield Park to Elena (nee Picinich) Babich and Biagio Babich.

Mr. Babich was a WWII veteran proudly serving in the US Coast Guard as a motor machinist Mate. He was very active with the US Coast Guard Ship, USCGC Eagle and was assigned to the original crew in 1945 to outfit and sail this ship from Germany to New London, CT as a prize of war.

Mr. Babich was employed for many years at Picatinny Arsenal as a mechanical engineer. He volunteered much of his time as a Leader with the Boy Scouts of America, Troop 149.

Mr. Babich was a parishioner of in Milton where he served as an usher and a Eucharistic Minister since 1975.

He enjoyed skiing, up to two years ago at the age of 85, and traveling, especially cruises and tours.

He was predeceased by his sister Margaret Passarotti, and his nephew Vincent Russo.

Mr. Babich is survived by his beloved wife Margaret, his four loving sons: Eugene Babich and his wife Ann, Vincent Babich and his wife Belkys, and Raymond Babich, all of South Carolina, and Frank Babich and his wife Cheryl of Milton.

He also leaves behind his cherished grandchildren Michael, Erin, Leslie, Andrew, and Patrick; his dear nieces Carol Passarotti Novembre of NJ, and Patricia Russo Payne of California; and his dear nephews Charles Passarotti of NY and Henry Passarotti of NJ, as well as his sister Lillian Russo and her husband Vincent of California. He also leaves behind his adored great grandchildren Savannah and Katelynn Babich.

The family will receive visitors on Tuesday, May 22 from 2 - 4 p.m. and 7 - 9 p.m. at the Stickle-Soltesz Funeral Home, 187 LaRue Road, Newfoundland, NJ 07435.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Wednesday, May 23 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Thomas the Apostle RC Church, 5635 Berkshire Valley Road, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438.

Interment will follow at St. Thomas the Apostle Cemetery, adjacent to the church.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in his memory to: Milton First Aid Squad, 45 Milton Road, Milton, NJ 07438 or to St. Thomas the Apostle Memorial Pipe Organ Preservation Fund, 5635 Berkshire Valley Road, Oak Ridge, NJ 07438.

Online condolences and directions can be found at www.sticklesolteszfuneralhome.com.