John J. Babkowski, 64, passed away at home Sunday morning, December 23, 2018 doing what he loved, baking holiday cookies and cakes for his family and friends. His health had been deteriorating from heart and blood disease ailments over the past several months.
Born in Avoca, he was the son of the late Joseph F. and Beatrice G. (Barbuti) Babkowski. He graduated from Pittston Area High School, class of 1972, as well as completing a culinary course of study at Luzerne County Community College a few years later.
After LCCC, he was a baker most of his life until his retirement as Assistant Bakery Manager at Gerrity’s, Moosic in 2010. He retired to be the full-time care giver for his mother until she passed in 2011. He loved his work and continued to enjoy baking for family and friends’ special occasions. John especially loved to share his dry humor with all around him with an objective of bringing a smile to their lips.
John is survived by his brothers; Joseph S. and wife Patricia Babkowski, James J. Babkowski, both of Avoca, as well as nieces and nephews Joseph G. Babkowski, Avoca, Jennifer E. Babkowski and her children, Landon J. and Paige E. Wheeler, Pittston, Shannon M. Tramontana, Block Island, RI, James M. Babkowski, Avoca, Abigail K. Babkowski and her son Oakley M. Uzzolino, Dupont, and Jan L. Babkowski, Scranton.
John thought of himself as a small town guy and enjoyed keeping his 3rd generation home maintained. He loved the dogs he had over the years, especially Sam, his current pet.
He enjoyed the closeness of his family and missed his parents when they passed. He often spoke of his anticipation of the afterlife and desire to be with his family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Luzerne County SPCA, 524 East Main St., Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702.
Family and friends may call on Sunday, December 30, from 5 to 8pm at the Kiesinger Funeral Home, 255 McAlpine St., Avoca. There will be a blessing from the funeral home Monday at 9:30am followed by interment at SS Peter and Paul Cemetery, Moosic.