Gerald F. “Jerry” BABCHAK, 78, of Wellsville, NY, died Saturday, November 7, 2026, in Jones Memorial Hospital, Wellsville. Born June 7, 1948, in Buffalo, he was the son of Frank and Helen A. Lucas Babchak. He is survived by Marlene Paprota Babchak, his wife of 48 years.
Following his 1966 graduation from Bishop Fallon High School, Jerry enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, completed basic training at Parris Island, NC, and served the Corps and his country from 1966-1970. During those years he had several positions, including security file manager with the 3rd Battalion, 4th Service Regiment at Okinawa, Japan; firefighter with the 1st Force Service Regiment, 1st Marine Division in Vietnam; and in operation control for the Headquarters Battalion in Philadelphia. His service was noted with military honors, including the Combat Action Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Navy Unit Citation, and Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry with Palm Ribbon.
The Marine Corps had a profound impact on Jerry for the rest of his life. He was proud to be a charter member of the Allegany County Vietnam Veterans Association and a life member of the Marine Corps League; he served as a Marine Corps representative at the Bath VA Medical Center. He was also a member of Veterans of Foreign Wars and 1st Marine Corps Association.
After earning a degree in Agriculture-Plant and Soil Science, Jerry was employed by Allegany County as forester and sanitarian.
In addition to his wife, Marlene, Jerry is survived by several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He will also be missed by lifelong friends. He was predeceased by two brothers, his twin Terrence J. Babchak and Ronald F. Babchak.
Friends may call at Lombardo Funeral Home (Southtowns Chapel), 3060 Abbott Road, Orchard Park, NY on Saturday, November 14, 2026, from 12:00 – 2:00 PM. Burial with military rites will be in Bath National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made at https://thefund.org for Semper Fi and America’s Fund.
Local arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.com.
