John J. Hebda

Hickory resident retired from state police John Joseph Hebda, 82, of Hickory, died Thursday, September 19, 2002, in his home. He was born August 30, 1920, in Jerome, a son of John and Mary Olszewska Hebda. Mr. Hebda was a member of Holy Trinity National Catholic Church in Washington. He served in the U.S. Coast Guard as a specialist first class during World War II and retired from Pennsylvania State Police as a sergeant after 36 years of service. He later served as director of safety and security at Washington Hospital. Mr. Hebda was a member of Edwin Scott Linton American Legion Post 175, Pennsylvania Association of Retired State Employees and Retired State Police Association and a charter member of Fraternal Order of Police National Trail Lodge 47. Mr. Hebda was an active gardener who enjoyed sports, collecting antiques and reading. His wife, Stella, whom he married June 14, 1947, survives. Also surviving are a son, John Jr.; a daughter, Dr. Toni Hebda; five sisters, Helen Tomera, Anna Drzal, Genevieve Wallet and Florence Slezak, all of Johnstown, and Mary Jane Kozak of Jerome; and numerous nieces and nephews. Deceased are a sister, Nellie Hyland; and three brothers, Theodore, Henry and Joseph Hebda. HEBDA - Friends of John Joseph Hebda of Hickory, who died Thursday, September 19, 2002, will be received from noon to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Sunday in William G. Neal Funeral Homes Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington. Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Monday, September 23, in Holy Trinity National Catholic Church, Washington, with the Rev. John Mack as celebrant. Interment will follow in Mt. Prospect Cemetery, Hickory. The family suggests memorial contributions to the church building fund of Holy Trinity National Catholic Church.