TRAVERSE CITY — Gerald Douglas Babel, 79, of Traverse City, passed away Feb. 11, 2012, after many years of health problems. During this time he was comforted and cared for by his wife and loving family.Jerry, a Traverse City native, was born Aug. 15, 1932, to the late August L. and Edna C. (Forton) Babel. After graduating from St. Francis High School in 1950, he was employed at the Camera Shop. He later moved to California and was employed by McDonnell Douglas Aircraft for many years. Upon returning to Traverse City, he was again employed by the Camera Shop. Later he was employed by BATA as a dispatcher until he retired.Jerry and Beth (Michael) were married March 15, 1974, and enjoyed 38 years of being married. Along with Beth, who survives, are their two wonderful children, Kris and Stephanie.With his first wife, Joan Whiting, he was also blessed with four children, Laura (Gregg) Pierce, Gerald "Buzz" (Sheryl) Babel, Mike (Sharlene) Babel and Angie Mackey. They were also blessed with six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Jerry is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Phyllis Babel and Birdie Wright; brother-in-law, Dean (Edyie) Michael; and many nieces and nephews.Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, August and Edna Babel; his father- and mother-in-law, Glen and Charlotte Michael; his brother, Larry Babel; and his brother-in-law, Robert Wright.He will always be remembered as a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His favorite hobbies were photography, building projects, watching sporting events and enjoying their cats, Sophie and Chloe.Jerry will be greatly missed by his family and friends here on earth, but we celebrate the joy of his new life with Christ.A Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 3, with visitation one hour prior, at St. Francis Catholic Church. Fr. Ken Stachnik will lead the service.Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Francis Catholic Church Food Pantry or to Cherryland Humane Society.The family wishes to extend their great appreciation to the wonderful staff at Munson Medical Center for their comfort measures during Jerry's last days.Please visit www.reynolds-jonkhoff.com to share your thoughts and memories with the familyThe family is being served by Reynolds-Jonkhoff Funeral Home, Traverse City.