Lois A. Babson

Lois A. Babson (nee Papcke), 85, of Vermilion, died Monday, March 7, 2022 at the Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL. She was born January 18, 1937 in Cleveland and had been a long time Vermilion area resident. Lois graduated from Bowling Green State University where she was a member of the Gamma Phi Beta Sorority. She and her husband, Don, owned Babson Fluid Power, Huron where she worked as the manager and CEO for 20 years, retiring in 1996. Lois was a member of Grace United Methodist Church where she was active with the Ladies of Grace and was one of the founders of Grace's Kitchen. She was also a member of the Vermilion Boat Club and the Pelee Island Sailing Society. She was an avid sailor, sailing around the world on the Millennium Odyssey Rally with her husband. Lois was a Girl Scout Leader for eight years, an avid bridge player, and a great dancer, belonging to the Eight Ball Dance Club for many years! Most people found her to be a great cook, even publishing her own cookbook. She will be remembered for her infectious smile. She is survived by her husband of 65 years, Don Babson of Vermilion; daughter, Deonne Coghlan of Jacksonville, FL; son, Fred Babson of Jacksonville, FL; grandchildren, Nate, Dean, Ellen, Nick and Bridgett; sister, Marge Branche of Portland, OR; brother, John (Nancy) Papcke of Logan, OH; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents, Emmet and Wilma (nee Mader) Papcke; son, Edward Babson in 1996; and her brother-in-law, James Branche. A celebration of Lois's life will be held on April 7, 2022 from 11:30 am to 3:30 pm at the Vermilion Boat Club, 5416 Liberty Ave, Vermilion, OH 44089. Private inurnment will take place at Maple Grove Cemetery, Vermilion. The family suggests memorial contributions to Ed Babson Scholarship Fund, c/o Vermilion School Board, 1250 Sanford Street, Vermilion, OH 44089. Online condolences may be made at www.riddlefuneralhome.com.