Shawn Babendure

Born on May 30, 1972 to David and Susan Babendure, Shawn came into the world with bright blue eyes and a never ending smile. A 1990 graduate of Cypress Creek High School in Houston, Texas, Shawn had big dreams and a heart for service.

Joining the U.S. Army in 1993, he was trained as a radio and secure communications repair specialist as the Army’s National Training Center at Fort Irwin. As a member of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, Specialist Babendure qualified as an expert marksman on the M-16 and attended Airborne School at Ft. Benning where he became airborne qualified and received his parachutist badge.

Clearly a talented and professional soldier, he earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Achievement Medal and the Army Commendation Medal, and a Good Conduct Medal. He served nearly four years before being honorable discharged to pursue his higher education goals.

Upon graduating from the University of Houston-Downtown in 1998 with a Bachelor of Science degree, he entered the financial services industry. He joined his dad's team at UBS Financial Services in 2006.

But Shawn Babendure wasn't done with his public service. He joined the Spring Fire Department in 2007 after completing his Firefighter I certification. He loved being a firefighter in his home community and rose through the ranks from volunteer firefighter to senior captain in 2014 and District Chief in 2017.

Chief Babendure's firefighter certifications are many, including Intermediate Firefighter, Confined Space Rope Rescue I & II, Emergency Vehicle Operator Training, Hazmat, Trench Evacuation/Rescue, Building Construction, Fire Behavior, Boat Safety, National Incident Management and so many others.

His greatest joy happened in May of 2008 when Jessica Schlesinger said "I do" and became Jessica Babendure. With the arrivals of daughter, Sophia, and son, Harrison, Shawn Babendure's world became even brighter. His family was his everything.

Shawn was also a huge sports fan. He loved coaching Sophia’s soccer team. An avid supporter of his Houston Cougar teams, Shawn loved attending Houston Astro games where he’d be at batting practice with his glove trying to catch a fly ball.

Shawn Babendure passed away on July 19, 2020 after an almost two year battle with glioblastoma. He will be forever missed by anyone lucky enough to be in his presence, especially his loving family.

Preceded in death by his father, David Babendure, Shawn Babendure is survived by his wife, Jessica (Schlesinger) Babendure, daughter, Sophia, son, Harrison, mother, Susan Babendure, sister Pia (Babendure) Kutten, Sister, Nicole (Babendure) Moore and husband, Josh Moore, as well as many cousins, nephews and a niece.

A private service will be held. Please leave remembrances and messages of condolence below.

In lieu of flowers, donations on behalf of Shawn Babendure to the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation would be appreciated. The foundation’s mission is to eradicate brain cancer through research, advocacy, and awareness. Donations can be made online at https://www.drmarnierose.org