John C. Habarka

John C. “Buff” Habarka, 71, of Washington, was taken by the hand of God and welcomed into heaven on April 9, 2024. He was born May 8, 1952, in Rankin, a son of the late John Habarka and Alice Cecelia Bolocko Habarka. Growing up, he lived in Rankin and held many after-school jobs in that area. In 1970, he graduated from Rankin High School, the home of the Rankin Jack Rabbits, where he had played on the basketball team. Even after graduation, he continued to play softball and basketball for recreation. Mr. Habarka worked at Union Switch and Signal in Swissvale making railroad crossing signs. He then went to work for the Allegheny Housing Authority at the West Mifflin Manor, retiring in 2015. John liked to keep busy. He enjoyed going to the beach, fishing, golfing, and watching all Pittsburgh sports. Most of all, he loved taking care of his red truck, washing and waxing it daily, until he was no longer physically able. John loved to visit with the two neighbor children; they gave him much joy. On October 21, 1978, he married Linda J. Breckons, who survives. They lived in Baldwin until 2007, when they moved to Washington. Surviving, in addition to his wife, are a sister, Regina (the late Val) Matta of Mars; a brother-in-law, Joe (Robin) Breckons, Jr.; a sister-in-law, Lois (the late Albert) Casper; nephew, Joe (Jennifer) Breckons III; great-niece, Penelope Breckons; many cousins; and mother-in-law, Lois P. (the late Joe, Sr.) Breckons. Deceased, in addition to his parents, is a brother, Robert Habarka. Friends and family will be received from 2 to 4 and 6 to 8 p.m., Friday, April 12th in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where a Blessing Service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, April 13th. Burial will follow in Claysville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.