John M. Garbini

John M. Garbini, 71, passed away Wednesday, October 2, 2024, in his Mohnton home, with his loving wife Georgia (Guzzetti) by his side.  Born in West Reading, he was a son of the late Frank and Tillie (Zaffiro) Garbini.  John and Georgia were married in 1981, celebrating 43 years together last week.

John loved his family dearly and is survived by daughters Gwendolyn Garbini, Kenhorst, and Angie Garbini, Wernersville, as well as his brothers Thomas Garbini (Beverly), Landisville, and Steven Garbini (Pamela), State College.  He is also survived by his granddaughter Carly Blum, her partner Jesse Gillmore, and great grandson Ryder.

John graduated from Governor Mifflin High School and went on to earn an Associates Degree from Penn State University.  He worked as a Manufacturing Engineer and Facilities Manager for over 40 years, most recently with Quadrant Engineering, retiring in 2019.    

John was a dedicated and beloved member of the Kenhorst Volunteer Fire Company #1, and earned great respect from his colleagues.  He served the community with unwavering commitment for the last 58 years, holding numerous positions within the department, including First Assistant Chief. Second Assistant Chief, Training Officer, and Captain.  It is his wish to have one final ride with his Fire Company.

As the current Captain, John was an integral part of training every new member who walked through the Station doors.  Affectionately known as “Old Man”,” he was immensely proud of his “sons” in the fire service, both career and volunteer, who will continue to honor his legacy at every call.  He also cherished the memory of his “brothers” Corey and Kerry, who predeceased him, and would salute their gear lockers still present in the Station.

John’s dedication, wisdom and stories will be deeply missed by all who knew him.  His legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched and the community that he served so faithfully.

A Celebration of John’s Life will be held in Klee Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Inc., One East Lancaster Avenue, Shillington, at 10:30 AM on Friday, October 18, 2024, with Pastor Scott Davis presiding.  Inurnment with Firemen’s Honors to follow in Forest Hills Memorial Park, Reiffton.  Visitation from 9:30-10:30 AM in the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers, donations in John’s honor may be made to either the Kenhorst Fire Company Truck Crew, 305 S. Kenhorst Blvd, Shillington, PA 19607, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.  Online condolences www.kleefuneralhome.com

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