Robert Thomas "Coach" Hebda

        It is with sadness we announce the passing of Mr. Robert Thomas Hebda, 85, a well-known and respected lifelong resident of Luzerne.  A gentleman whose life was marked by service, dedication and a profound love for his family and community; Mr. Hebda passed into eternal life the afternoon of Tuesday, November 18th while in the care of the River View Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Plains Township, following a recent illness.

     Born on Monday, May 13, 1940 in Luzerne, he was one of six children to the late Joseph and Loretta (Nafus) Hebda. Educated in the Luzerne schools, he later attended the Westmoreland High School of Trucksville.

     Following his formal education, his early sense of duty led him to enlist in the United States Army on September 23, 1958, where he had the unique experience of being stationed at the same Texas boot camp as Elvis Presley.  Unfortunately, his military service was cut short due to a motor vehicle accident, resulting in a medical honorable discharge just two months after enlistment on November 17, 1958.  Despite this short tenure, his pride in serving his country remained throughout his life. 

     Robert spent much of his professional career in the transportation industry; retiring as a transport driver for Pace Transportation, where he cared for special needs children.  He was also well-known as the former owner and operator of R.J. Trucking in Luzerne.  Prior to these roles, he was a carpet installer at Tuft-Tex Carpets in Plains Township and began his career in construction with Eldridge Construction Company of Luzerne.

     A natural mentor, Robert had a passion for teaching children and spent countless volunteer hours as a coach for Little League, teener and mini football teams in both Edwardsville and Larksville.  His contribution to the community and commitment to youth development left a lasting impact on many lives.  Even prior to his passing he was best known as “Coach” to neighbors, family, friends and the nurses who cared for him.  He will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him.

     He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, the former Lorraine Arlene (Henniges) Hebda on October 28, 2000.  At the time of Mrs. Hebda’s passing, the couple shared thirty-eight years of married life together.  He also bid farewell to his daughter-in-law, Rachel (Moses) Hebda on October 27, 2006, and by brothers Joseph, John, Richard and George Hebda.

     Left to cherish all the wonderful memories they keep of him are his children, Mrs. Christine Price and her husband William J. Price of Wyoming and Robert Hebda Jr. of Kingston.  Granddaughters, including Jenelle Osborne and her husband Bob; Lyndsey Price; Julie Price and her companion Caden Martin and Brittany Lynn Hebda; Great-grandsons, Jacob, Dax and Luca;  Sister, Mrs. Loretta Amos and her husband Michael of Luzerne; his longtime companion, Ms. Barbara Bray and her family of Luzerne; many former young athletes and dear friends.

     Per his previous request, funeral services for Mr. Hebda will be held privately and at the convenience of his family with no formal visitation.  Interment will be next to his wife in Chapel Lawn Memorial Park, PA Route #415 in Dallas.

     The John V. Morris Family Funeral Home Inc. of Wilkes-Barre is honored to care for Mr. Hebda and his family at this time.  Those wishing to share online words of comfort or a fond memory of Coach with his family are encouraged to do so here on his memorial page.  Thank You.

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