Wayne Babich

Wayne Babich, beloved son, brother, and friend, fell asleep in the Lord on March 28, 2024, at the age of 59. He was born in Anaconda, Montana, on September 14, 1964, to Mladen and Natalie Babich.

Known for his loving nature and gentle soul, Wayne was always ready with a kind word and an infectious smile. He was a devoted caregiver to his family and cherished his time spent with loved ones. Wayne had a special bond with animals, finding joy not only in the company of his pets but in everyone else’s as well.

A willing kitchen companion, particularly when it came to indulging in the fruits of his labor, Wayne took pleasure in helping make smoked meats, from prosciutto and kobasica to pepperoni sticks. He also enjoyed making Višnjak, his family’s famous elixir and restorative pick-me-up for friends and family alike, spreading cheer and comfort at gatherings and putting smiles on the faces of all who visited. Wayne loved decorating for the holidays and had a special touch when it came to decorating the tree.

In the great outdoors, Wayne treasured hunting expeditions with his father, brother Vladimir, and their friends, not to mention fishing excursions to Big Hole, Mill Creek, and Georgetown Lake, with his Uncle Nicky. But it was the simple delight of car rides with Uncle Nicky that held a special place in his heart.

Wayne is preceded in death by his mother, Natalie Babich, Aunt Dragie Yalovich, Uncle Nick “Nicky” Yalovich, Aunt Phylis and Uncle John Yalovich, and cousin David Yalovich. He is survived by his father, Mladen Babich, his brother, Vladimir Babich, dear cousins JoAnn and Don Abel, Linda and Brent Davis, John and Mary Yalovich and their extended family in Serbia and Sweden.

Wayne Babich was a lifelong parishioner of Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church in Butte.  He will be remembered for his charm, warmth, generosity, and unwavering love for his family and friends. May his memory be eternal!

A Visitation will begin at 10am on Wednesday, April 3, 2024, at Longfellow Finnegan Riddle Funeral Home, 107 Oak St, in Anaconda with the Funeral Service following at 11am at the funeral home. A graveside service will follow at Upper Hill Cemetery. Following the graveside service, a reception will be held at Old Montana Hotel, 200 Main Street in Anaconda.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in honor of Wayne are suggested to the Bagdad Shrine Transportation Fund,314 West Park, Butte, MT 59701, or to Pintler Pets, 80 Silver St., Anaconda, MT 59711, or to Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Church, 2100 Continental Dr., Butte, MT 59701, or to the foundation of the donor's choice.

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