Edward Babeck

Edward M. Babeck, 63, Bismarck, died January 5, 2009, at his home. Mass of Christian burial will be held 1:00 pm Friday at Church of St. Mary, Bismarck with Rev. Charles Heidt officiating. Burial will be held at 1:00 PM MT Saturday at St. Bernard’s Cemetery, Belfield. Visitation will be held from 2:00 pm until 9:00 pm Thursday at Parkway Funeral Service, 2330 Tyler Parkway, Bismarck, with a rosary/vigil beginning at 7:00 pm. Ed was born November 19, 1945, in Dickinson, ND, the son of Mike and Mary Babeck. He was raised on the family farm northwest of Belfield, ND, and attended Belfield High School. He later joined the United States Air Force. After an honorable discharge in 1966, Ed attended UND and BSC. He married Judy Jaborski in December 1968. He worked as a computer programmer at UND, Grand Forks from 1969 – 1971. He then programmed for the United Hospital, Grand Forks, before moving to Bismarck and working for NCR from 1974 to 1985. In 1985 he became self-employed and enjoyed his work of computer programming and sales as a partner in Dakota Programs. He was still active in the business until the time of his death. Ed was a devoted father and grandfather. He loved music, especially old time, and was an avid accordion and guitar player. Ed formed a family band, “Country Pride,” with his two sons, Monte and Sheldon in 1988. The band has entertained for many weddings and anniversaries with Ed’s last performance with the band being 2009 New Year’s Day. Ed also has organized the Great Plains Polka Fest held in Bismarck for the last eight years. People have traveled from across the nation to attend his polka fest. Ed was a member of the American Legion, Amvets, Eagles, Moose, and Elks Clubs. He was also an avid fan of the Vikings and enjoyed watching them on Sundays. Ed will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. Left with many fond memories are his mother, Mary, Bismarck; his three sons, Monte Anjyl, Jody, and Sheldon, all of Bismarck; three grandchildren, Hunter, KenaDee, and Dalton; and one sister, Elaine Steve Kessel, Belfield, and their children. Ed was preceded in death by his father, Mike; and his grandparents.

Edward Babeck

November 19, 1945 - January 5, 2009