John R. (Ron) Bobek, 395 Avalon Dr., New Castle, passed away at 8:50 a.m. Sunday (1-3-10) in Jameson Hospital following an extended illness. He was 67.

He was born in New Kensington, Pennsylvania the son of John and Genevieve O'Tremba Bobek.

John graduated in 1960 from Ken High School, New Kensington.

He was employed for 37 ½ years at Norfolk Southern's Conway Yard where he retired as a jitney driver in 2002.

He belonged to Mary Mother of Hope Parish, New Castle.

A decorated veteran of the U S. Army, he served in Stuttgart, Germany and was honorably discharged in 1963 with a rank of Sergeant (E-5).

Some of his interest included fishing, shooting pool, and spending time with his grandchildren who he dearly loved.

His wife Joan Bobek whom he married on May 24, 1969 survives at home.

Also surviving are his children, Janene M. Rodgers and her husband William, and Christopher J Bobek, all of New Castle.

In Lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to Mary Mother of Hope Parish, 124 North Beaver St., New Castle, PA 16101

John was preceded in death by his parents.

Visitation will be Tuesday (1-5-10) from 6-8 p.m. in the J. Bradley McGonigle Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 111 West Falls St. where the New Castle Honor Guard will provide military honors at 8:00 p.m.

Mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Wednesday (1-6-10) at 9:00 a.m. in St. Mary's church. Entombment will follow in Resurrection Mausoleum, St. Mary Cemetery.

Condolences can be sent to his family by visiting the web site www.McGonigleFuneralHomeandCrematory.com