Obituary of Lawrence Arnold Babkirk

Obituary It is with great sadness we announce the passing of Larry Babkirk, October 23, 2019. Larry was born in High Prairie, Alberta, May 24, 1931 to Wilbur and Lula Babkirk. Larry will be missed and remembered by his wife of 65 years, Florida, eldest son Darrell (Glenda), Dave (Lorraine), Chris (Susan), Murray (Kathy), Joanne (Terry), brothers Jim (Evelyn), Steve (Pat), and sister-in-law Olga Babkirk. Grandchildren Brett Babkirk, Rory Babkirk, Michelle Irvine, Tyler Babkirk, Desiree Westgard, Krista Babkirk, Brandon Babkirk, Meagan Stickel, Danielle Babkirk, Wesley Babkirk, Alexis Vander Linden, Hunter Vander Linden as well as 8 great grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews and close friends that he and mom made over the years. Larry was predeceased by his dad Wilbur, mother Lula, brothers Lee, Ken, Billy and sisters Arline, Winnie and Maxine. Larry began working in the North Peace on drilling rigs beginning in 1951. Larry and Florida, Darrell and David in tow moved from High Prairie up to Wonowon in 1958 so Dad could be closer to his work on the drilling rig. In 1960 Chris was born followed by Murray in 1963. Mom and Dad finally got their girl in 1970 when Joanne was born. Larry began his career with Westcoast Transmission in 1961 and remained in their employment until 1992 when he retired.He made many lifelong friends at Westcoast and had many funny memories he relished in sharing with everyone. During his time at Westcoast he also pursued his love of farming by taking up land at Mile 115 and proceeded to clear/break land in preparation for what he hoped someday would be a viable operation, an activity he enjoyed until this year. Driving tractor was a passion of Larry's and in later years as the machines became more comfortable and diesel fuel was no longer his problem, he enjoyed it even more. Larry and Florida retired to Fort St. John in 1992 where keeping the yard, gardening, visiting with friends and occasional vacations kept Dad busy. Ha also made numerous visits up to the farm to help out as well to gather his firewood, and hunt with Uncle Roy and other friends. Dad we will miss you! A Celebration of Life will be held May 16, 2020 with more details to follow. Please come prepared to share memories, funny stories, as we all have many. Thank You to all the nursing staff at the Fort St. John Hospital. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation in memory of Larry to the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation. Services Celebration of Life Saturday May 16, 2020 2:00 PM