David W. Babcock

David William Babcock, age 77, of Willis, Michigan, died peacefully on January 21, 2026, at StoryPoint in Northville.

David was born on May 7, 1948, in Mason, Michigan, the son of Versile D. and Geraldine M. (Lundstrum) Babcock. On September 29, 2009, he married Alison “Ali” Cipolla, with whom he shared a life grounded in faith, love, and devotion to one another.

David proudly joined the Detroit Police Department in 1969 and devoted more than 53 years of service as a sergeant with the crime scene unit. Throughout his long and dedicated career, he served the citizens of the City of Detroit with integrity, diligence, and quiet professionalism. He honed his craft as an Evidence Technician through training on several occasions at the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia. His work ethic and commitment to justice left a lasting mark on those he served alongside and the community he protected.

A man of deep faith, David was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. He and Ali dedicated their lives to their Christian faith and were active members of NorthRidge Church in Plymouth, where David found fellowship, purpose, and joy in serving the Lord.

David had a passionate love for the outdoors, where he found peace and renewal in God’s creation. He especially enjoyed hunting and fishing and searching for morel mushrooms. Many cherished memories were made at the family’s cabin in the woods of Northern Michigan. He deeply loved his dogs, Shofar and Maple, faithful and well-trained hunting companions who filled his life with affection and companionship.

When not working or hunting, David found great joy in traveling. Italy was his favorite destination, capturing his heart from the moment he first visited. David and Ali shared many adventures together there, as well as traveling the rivers in Europe. Their last adventure took them to Israel, where he was able to walk in the footsteps of Jesus. He loved photography and had a special gift for capturing life’s meaningful moments and breathtaking views.

David was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Stephen Babcock; his sister, Martha Babcock-Smith, and his mother-in-law, Cynthia Cipolla. He is survived by his beloved wife, Ali Babcock; siblings Becky (Ed) Harwood, Don (Judi) Babcock, and Mary (John Kirscht) Babcock; father-in-law, John C. Cipolla; sister-in-law Mary Babcock; and brothers-in-law Clyde Smith and John D. (Cindy Metz) Cipolla. He is also survived by Debbie Babcock and his extended family, including members of Ali’s family, whom he loved dearly. David was a loving uncle to 13 nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss his steady presence and gentle spirit.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. with a Time of Gathering beginning at 10:00 a.m. at NorthRidge Church, 49555 N. Territorial Road, Plymouth. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in David’s memory to NorthRidge Church, 49555 N. Territorial Road, Plymouth, MI 48170.

“Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your Lord.” — Matthew 25:21