Albert Vavreck
Albert “Babe” Vavreck, 99, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 3, 2026, with his loving family by his side in The Pines of Mount Lebanon, Pittsburgh.
Born on March 3, 1927, in Filbert, he was the son of Matthew and Mary Pacak Vavreck. Babe lived a long, full life marked by devotion to family, service to his country, faith and a gentle humor that endeared him to everyone he met.
Babe spent most of his life in Ralph, before later residing in Uniontown and finally at The Pines of Mt. Lebanon. In 1953, he established Vavreck’s Store and Service Station in Hibbs. The store and service station operated for many years before closing in the late 1970s, while the Hibbs Post Office remained in the same building and continued to serve the community.
Babe began his postal career in June 1972 when he was appointed Officer in Charge of the Hibbs Post Office. In April 1973, he became Postmaster, a role he proudly fulfilled until his retirement in 1988.
He was a lifelong member of St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church in New Salem, where his faith was a steady and meaningful part of his life.
Before beginning his civilian career, Babe served his country in the United States Army during World War II, carrying the experience with quiet dignity throughout his life.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patricia Jeffries Vavreck, whom he lost in 2007 and never stopped loving. At The Pines of Mt. Lebanon, where he lived in his later years, he carried her photo with him and showed it to staff and visitors with pride and tenderness. He was also preceded in death by his infant twin brother, Joseph; brothers: John, Pete, Matthew, Steve, Walter and Donald; sisters: Anna Pappas, Katherine Fidek and Elizabeth Bukszar; and his grandson, Mark Ethan Vavreck.
Babe is survived by his son, Mark Vavreck (Lou Ann); his daughter, Jodi Allison (Paul); and his grandson, Brendan Allison. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews and their families, all of whom cherished him deeply.
He had a lifelong love of animals, especially dogs. Babe adored his family’s dogs, Milo and Lucy, who brought him joy, comfort, and companionship. His gentle nature made animals gravitate toward him just as easily as people did.
Babe also loved simple pleasures and outings that brought him joy. He enjoyed going to the casino, playing the slot machines, and spending time at bingo-activities that gave him fun, excitement, and camaraderie throughout his life.
Known for his corny jokes and easy smile, Babe brought laughter wherever he went. Even in his final years, he delighted in sharing humor with those around him. His kindness, loyalty, and deep love for his family will be remembered always.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at The Pines of Mt. Lebanon, who cared for Babe with compassion and dignity in his final years, and to Gateway Hospice, whose support and kindness brought comfort during his final days.
A life as long and rich as Babe’s leaves behind countless stories, smiles, and memories. His family takes comfort in knowing he is reunited with Patricia, the love of his life.
Viewing will be held at DEARTH FUNERAL HOME, 35 South Mill Street, New Salem, from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, September 9. A Parastas Service will be held at 7:30 p.m.
Visitation will also be held on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the Panachida Service at 10:30 a.m. in the funeral home. A Divine Liturgy will follow at 11 a.m. in St. Mary’s Byzantine Catholic Church, New Salem, PA with the Reverend Father James Ragan officiating. Interment at LaFayette Memorial Park in Brier Hill.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to St. Mary’s Byzantine Church, 12 Center St. Ext., New Salem, PA 15468; or Fayette Friends of Animals, 223 Searights Herbert Rd., Uniontown PA 15401.
www.dearthfh.com