John E. Coolbaugh

n Loving Memory of John E. Coolbaugh
1944 – 2025

John E. Coolbaugh, 81, a lifelong resident of Harding, PA, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at the Gino J. Merli Veterans Center in Scranton. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by the love and presence of his devoted children and grandchildren—just as he had lived, with family close by his side.

Born in Dallas, PA, John spent his life rooted in the Harding community, where he built a legacy defined by service, dedication, and quiet strength.

A proud United States Marine, John served his country with honor from 1965 to 1967 and was awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal. After his military service, he continued to serve others as a heavy equipment operator, business owner, and as a committed supervisor for Exeter Township.

John was known for his steady presence, tireless work ethic, and deep love for his family. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Florence (Sutliff) Coolbaugh, in 2024, and by his brothers Emmit, Wilbur, and Abraham Coolbaugh.

He is lovingly remembered by his children: Sam (Deb) Noone of Springhill, Julie (Doug) Cooper of Harding, Christine (Paul) Fazio of Plains, John E. Coolbaugh Jr. of Tunkhannock, and Bruce (Megan) Coolbaugh of Factoryville. His spirit lives on through his grandchildren—Olivia, Michael, Kelly, Kayla, John III, Cole, Bruce Jr., and Inna—as well as his cherished step-grandchildren, whom he proudly embraced as his own: Todd Kern Jr., Nicholas Fazio, and Matthew Fazio. He also found joy in his great-granddaughter, Harmony.

He is also survived by his brother James (Alberta) Coolbaugh of Harding, his sister Margaret Coolbaugh of Exeter, and many beloved nieces and nephews, who fondly and affectionately called him “Uncle John.”

To his family, John was a source of strength and comfort. To his community, he was a quiet example of service and integrity.

Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance on Tuesday, July 15th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Gubbiotti Funeral Home, LLC, 1030 Wyoming Ave., Exeter.
A funeral service celebrating John’s life will be held on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at the funeral home, officiated by Rev. Dr. Martha Jordan of the Wyoming United Presbyterian Church.

John will be laid to rest next to his wife with full military honors at Memorial Shrine Burial Park of Northeast Pennsylvania, a fitting farewell to a life lived with courage, devotion, and love.

To share memories or offer condolences to the family, please visit www.gubbiottifh.com.

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