Obituary

Henry (Hank) F. Podbielski (Mr. Pod) passed away on April 15, 2026. He was preceded in death by Barbara, his wife of 47 years; his parents, Henry and Henrietta Podbielski; a brother, David;  brothers-in-law, Jeff Marsico, Gary Stanley, Jeff Stanley; and nephews, Joshua and Logan Podbielski. He is survived by his sons: Terry Podbielski (Kaitlyn) of New Brighton, Chris at home and Michael, of Beaver Falls; grandchildren, Addison and Tallen; two sisters, Barb (Doug) Dunlap of Ohioville and Christine Marsico of Moon Township; a brother Tom (Sue) of West Palm Beach, FL; sisters-in-law,  Kay Podbielski, Kay (Phil) Ziska, Brenda Stanley,  Louie Stanley; and many nieces and nephews.

Henry was a graduate of Beaver Falls High School Class of 1961 and a 1965 Graduate of Geneva College where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Speech and Communication.  After various jobs in the community, Henry decided to enter the teaching profession. In the fall of 1968, he was hired by the Beaver Local School District of Lisbon, Ohio.  He taught English, Speech and Theatre Arts.  During his career, he directed over 30 musicals and 27 straight dramatic plays.

After retiring from a 30 year career at Beaver Local, Henry came back to PA to work in Freedom School District as a job coach.  He worked with students who were having trouble in the classroom and in life.  For those students who were employed, Henry had to help them learn their job skills and have the employer do an evaluation on the student’s job performance.

At this point, Henry retired and decided to enjoy life. Henry was an avid BF Tiger football and basketball fan. He was also a Penn State football season ticket holder.

Henry enjoyed many trips to Happy Valley as well as visiting many away and Bowl games in the US. This Obituary would not be complete without one last word from Henry – “We are Penn State!”

Friends will be received on Monday, April 27^th from 2-4PM and 6-8PM in the GABAUER-LUTTON FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SERVICES., INC., Chippewa Township, 117 Blackhawk Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010.

Departing prayers will be offered in the funeral home on Tuesday, April 28^th at 9:30AM followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10AM at St. Monica Church of St. Augustine Parish, 116 Thorndale Dr., Beaver Falls, PA 15010.  Fr. Kim Schreck will serve as celebrant.