BOARDMAN – Michael J. “Lefty” Babik, 56, died Monday, Nov. 29, 2010 at University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Presbyterian.

He was born March 19, 1954, in Youngstown,Ohio (Mahoning County) a son of Michael and Eleanor Repko Rokocy Babik.

Mike was employed by Custom Systems Manufacturing.

He was a 1972 graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School. He was a member of St. Charles Church.

Michael loved his wife very much, whom he affectionately called “Tini.”

He was a caring person, who was always helpful and supportive of his friends and others.

Lefty had a passion for music, especially John Lennon and the Beatles. He played the guitar and composed his own music.

He played Darts (steel tip) for many years, throwing for various teams. Lefty enjoyed playing softball and was instrumental in starting the Diver Steel City team, where he was a player and co-manager. He also enjoyed working on cars and was a strong union supporter, having served as a shop steward.

Mike is survived by his mother, Eleanor; his loving wife, Christine P. “Tina” LaRiccia, whom he married Dec. 15, 1995; his brother, Rick (Brenda) Babik of Houston; his sister, Beverly Ann Babik of Boardman, Ohio; and a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his father.

Friends may call from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Anstrom-Velker Funeral Home, 75 E. Midlothian Blvd. and from 10 to 11 a.m. Friday prior to the service at the church.
There will be a Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. Friday at St. Charles Church