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Thomas J. Garbark Jr.

Wojciechowski Funeral Home

Obituaries | The Tube City Almanac | April 21, 2025

  Thomas J. Garbark Jr, 74, of Elizabeth died Saturday April 19, 2025. He is the son of the late Thomas and Muriel (Rouke) Garbark Sr. He is survived by his loving wife Christine (Terek) Garbark; sons Thomas Garbark III and Douglas Garbark; and siblings Paul, Rita, Richie, Bobby, Jerry, Marianne and Ann. He was preceded in death by his brother Larry Garbark.

A devoted husband, loving father, and cherished friend. Thomas leaves behind a legacy of kindness, courage, and unwavering dedication to his family.

A man of many talents, he delighted in new tools and gadgets, always tinkering and exploring with curiosity. To those who knew him, he was a role model—generous with his time, quick to lend a hand, and steadfast in his support for others. 

For over 50 years, he was a loving and devoted husband to Christine, a dedicated father who never missed a game, and a guiding presence in his children’s lives, offering wisdom and strength through every challenge. His commitment to family was unmatched. 

Even in his youth, his bravery shone through—earning the Boy Scouts Medal of Honor for heroically saving a boy on fire. That same selflessness defined him throughout his life as he was also a proud U.S. Army veteran.

Thomas was also a lifelong learner, he earned his nursing degree from CCAC, followed by a Bachelor’s from California University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s from St. Francis University. He dedicated his career to home health services, compassionately caring for others until his retirement. 

He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his warmth, integrity, and the profound impact he had on all who knew him. 

Friends will be received on Wednesday from 2-4 and 6-8 at the Wojciechowski Funeral Home, Glassport. A funeral mass will be held Thursday 10am at St. Michaels in Elizabeth with Fr. Ed Whitman. Internment following at Good Shephard Cemetery, Monroeville.

Originally published April 21, 2025.

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