James Paul Babler

Jim was born to Laurene and Richard Babler in Winona, MN on December 31, 1957. He was the youngest of three boys. Jim fondly remembered his youth as being centered around working at his Great Uncle’s farm. Through those years he learned the importance of family working together and developed skills and traits that would serve him well later in life.

Jim met his wife Kathleen “Kate” in Winona and they moved to Charlotte, NC in 1984 when he took a job as an Electronics Technician with the FBI. Jim loved his 35-year career with the bureau and developed lifelong friendships with many of his colleagues. He was well-known for his work ethic, attention to detail, and dependability.

Jim loved to spend his time with his family and friends, ride his bike, complete home projects, go on road trips, discover music through his loved ones, and cook beautiful meals with Kate. Jim always said if you were his friend, then you were in his fox hole. He lived these words in all of his relationships with loyalty, selflessness, meaningful conversations, and unconditional love. He was an incredible dad and never held back telling his three girls how much he loved them and how proud he was of them.

Jim is survived by his wife of forty years, Kathleen Schneider Babler; his daughters Allison Mullin (Joseph), Jenna Babler, and Rachel Keenan (Garrett); his grandson and namesake Otis James Mullin; his brother David Babler (Christine); and his 29 nieces and nephews.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Richard and Laurene Babler and brother Rick Babler.

A celebration of life will occur on July 20th in Southport, NC (details pending) and a memorial service will be held at St. Mary’s Catholic Church at 1:30 PM on July 26th in Winona, MN, luncheon to follow.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Lower Cape Fear Hospice, Duke Cancer Center and Novant Health Zimmer Cancer Institute.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com

Peacock - Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service, Southport, North Carolina.