Melvin "Moose" J. Babcock

Melvin J. Babcock, affectionately known as “Moose”, 76, of Lancaster, went home to be with his Lord, on April 10, 2024 after complications from a fall.  He was the loving husband of Janet (Buchanan) Babcock, with whom he was married to for 51 years.  

Born in Iowa City, IA, he was the son of the late Jerry and Mabel (Mowery) Babcock.

After graduating from high school, Mel served 38 years as a missionary in Alaska.  Following his service in Alaska, he and his family moved to Lancaster where he spent 18 1/2 years as a security guard for Sight and Sound Ministries.

In his spare time, he enjoyed woodworking, but his greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his granddaughters.

In addition to his wife Janet, he is survived by his daughter Deborah Rivera and son-in-law Angel; and grandchildren, Allison and Emily Rivera; He was predeceased by his parents as well as his stillborn siblings, Florence and Bernard Babcock.   

Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Service at Calvary Church, 1051 Landis Valley Rd, Lancaster, PA 17601 on Monday, April 15, 2024 at 1:00 PM.  An informal visitation will occur at the church following the Celebration of Life Service.

An open-casket viewing will be held on Tuesday, April 16, 2024 from 9:30 AM to 10:30 AM at DeBord Snyder Funeral Home & Crematory, 141 E. Orange St., Lancaster, PA 17602.  A graveside service will follow the viewing on Tuesday at Millersville Mennonite Cemetery, 435 Manor Ave, Lancaster, PA 17603 at 11:00 AM.  

In lieu of flowers contributions may be made in memory of Mel Babcock to Victory Ministries, 64741 Victory Road Sutton, AK 99674 or Bible Fellowship Church Board of Missions, 1011 Brookside Road Suite 145 Allentown, PA 18106.  To leave an online condolence for the family, please visit: www.DeBordSnyder.com.