Ken's earliest memories of working on political campaigns go back to JFK's presedential election. A passionate teenager, Ken got his first inkling of what was involved in working at the local level to achieve a national success. He went on to represent his country at a seminar in local government where he met his wife to be, Ruth.

Upon graduation from CMU with a major in Political Science and a minor in U.S. History, Ken and his family moved to Marlette to teach here. Over the years, he put his organizational skills to good use, and has been National Honor Society advisor, High School Senior coordinator, Student Council advisor, chair of the Social Studies department and more recently attendance officer. Always though, he has kept his fingers on the High School Government classes and encouraging his students to expand their vision.

In addition to teaching, Ken successfully ran for and was elected to City Council and spent 5 years as a council member and 25 years as a Village President or Mayor. This truly gave him an opportunity to teach by example and so his passion for government also became his hobby.

Not only did he focus on the local community service level, but he expanded his experience to accept leadership roles such as: President of the Michigan Association of Mayors, serving on the Michigan Workers Compensation board, serving on the State Boundary Commission for Sanilac County, and serving on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Municipal League. He was honored with the Liberty Bell award, which is awarded to an outstanding public servant by the Sanilac County Bar Association. Ken is proud to state that, "My life outside of home has revolved around the school and the city."

During Ken and Ruth's 35 plus years of marriage, they were blessed with 3 children: John, Tiffany and Damian and now have 4 grandchildren. In his "spare" time, Ken enjoys photography and going to the movies, but most of all he enjoys time with their precious grandchildren. "I thoroughly enjoy every minute with my grandchildren and spoiling them rotten", he states through a wide and very proud grin.

To sum up Ken's wonderful outlook on life, "It's simple" he states. "I stay focused on three things: my love of God, my love of my wife, Ruth and the love of my family."

Congratulations, Ken Babich, on being recognized as Marlette Regional Hospital's 14th Annual Tree of Shining Love honoree!

Donations from the 14th Annual Tree of Shining Love have been directed toward the hospice residence.