John Labenski

John Labenski, 61, of Nanticoke, passed away Thursday, July 23, 2026 at Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia following a lengthy illness.

He is survived by his wife, the former Paula Castagna, with whom he shared 38 years of marriage.

Born March 20, 1965 in Wilkes-Barre, he was a son of Mary Ann Dettmore Labenski, of Nanticoke and the late Eugene Labenski. John graduated from John S. Fine High School, Nanticoke, Class of 1983 and earned an associates degree in business from Luzerne County Community College.

He was employed as a manager for the former Mr. Z’s markets throughout the region. He later drove delivery for Herr’s as well as Jack Williams Tire Company until retiring.

John was a member of St. Faustina Kowalska Parish, Nanticoke and previously St. Mary of Czestochowa Church; a member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 834, Nanticoke; and was an avid Pittsburgh Steelers, Notre Dame, and Phillies fan. John enjoyed the company of his two dogs, Harper and Hailey and grand-dog, Ivy. John was a barbecue enthusiast who enjoyed spending his weekends cooking for family.

In addition to his mother, Mary Ann, and his wife, Paula, he is survived by children, Nicole Marie Swicklik and husband, Stephen, of Nanticoke; Jonathon Taylor Labenski, of Nanticoke, and Samantha Anna Jopling and husband, Joshua, of Plains; his siblings, Michael Labenski and wife, Kathy, David Labenski and wife, Cheryl, and Patricia Dennis and husband, Ronald, all of Nanticoke; and several nieces and nephews.

Christian Burial outside of Mass will be Wednesday at 11 a.m. from Dinelli Family Funeral Home, 170 E. Broad Street, Nanticoke.

Viewing and visitation will be at the funeral home Wednesday from 9 a.m. until the time of the service.