Wanda J. Babiak

Wanda J. Babiak, 87, of Springfield, passed away on Saturday July 8, 2017 at her residence. She was born on August 23, 1929 in Detroit, Michigan to Louie and Gladys Davidson Byrd. Wanda married Robert C. Babiak on May 7, 1949 in Springfield and he preceded her in death on March 6, 2007. Together, Wanda and Bob created a wonderful life and family together. God blessed them mightily. They fought the good fight. They both finished the race. They kept the faith and now God has reunited them in His crown of righteousness in Heaven.

Mrs. Babiak is survived by her children: Fran (Dick) Matson and Bob (Linda) Babiak both of Springfield, five grandchildren: Dara (Alan) Matson-Chase, Sara (Jim) Ross, Kyle Matson, Nick (Kristin) Babiak, Angie (Greg) Lyons and Mike (Courtney) Babiak, fifteen great-grandchildren and two great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her granddaughter Keri Matson.

Wanda worked at Southeast High School and later retired after years of service at the Illinois Secretary of State. She was a member of The Bunco Club for fifty years. She enjoyed cooking, hosting holidays and family gatherings and baking her famed German pastry treat, "potica," as well as other delicious desserts for those celebrations. Wanda and her husband, Bob relished their travel ventures in Hawaii and many other parts of the United States, in England, Ireland and Germany. For many years, they spent the winter months in Panama City Beach, Florida.

Wanda was once asked where she thought that she would go after she died. She replied, "hopefully to a very nice funeral home!" Well, we have that covered Wanda dear. On your way to meet Dad, family & friends already in Heaven, a funeral service, officiated by Lead Minister, Brad Ferris of Rochester Christian Church, will be held at 12:30pm on Thursday July 13, 2017 at Bisch and Son Funeral Home, 505 East Allen Street, Springfield, Il., with burial to follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery. The family will meet friends from 11:00am until the time that the service begins.

Memorial contributions may be made to any charitable organization that may be near and dear to the heart of the giver as Wanda would encourage you to pay kindness and generosity forward to help others in need. Please visit the online “Life Remembered Story” at www.bischandsonfuneralhome.com.