Richard O. Babcock 88, a resident of Beech Street passed away peacefully in his sleep on February 18, 2010 after a brief illness at the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center.He was born in Pownal, VT., on December 15, 1921.He lived on the family farm in Pownal until he moved to Bennington in 1962.He was the son of the late Charles H. Babcock and Flossie (Robare) Babcock.Richard attended school in Pownal, VT on Niles School Road. He was employed at the Berkshire Fine Spinning Co. in Greylock, MA from 1941 to 1943. He then moved on to Sprague Electric Co. in North Adams, MA from 1943 to 1948 he finally settled in with Bijur Lubricating Co. in Bennington, VT from 1948 to 1987 where he retired at the age of 65.Richard enjoyed playing the piano and guitar in a band with his brothers throughout the Bennington area for many years.He enjoyed old cars, hunting, fishing and gardening.Richard leaves his long time caregiver and friend of 25 years Robert F. Baker of Bennington and many beloved nieces and nephews.He was predeceased by one sister Stella M. Buckley of North Adams, and three brothers Frank A. Babcock of Clarksburg, MA, Fred W. and Harold I. Babcock of Bennington, VT.Funeral services will be held on Saturday February 20, 2010 at 11am at the Hanson-Walbridge Funeral Home with Reverend Matthew Bowles pastor of the First United Methodist Church officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home from 10 to 11am when the family will be present. Burial will take place in the Hoosick Rural Cemetery in Hoosick, New York.If friends desire, memorial gifts in memory of Richard may be made to the Bennington Rescue Squad in care of the Hanson-Walbridge Funeral Home, 213 West Main Street, Bennington, VT 05201.