Ervin Habada

Ervin Habada, 102, a longtime resident of Lyons, passed away March 21, 2024. A memorial will be held at Tower Home for Funerals in Lyons, Illinois on April 20, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. At 102, Ervin had quite a few stories to share—like paying $9,500 for his first home, or when his brother talked him into buying a car he couldn’t afford for $25. He recalled how bad things were during the Depression, so much so that there wasn’t money for fun gifts at Christmastime, so children received clothing instead. But, with the spirit of gratitude that Ervin is known for, he appreciated such practical gifts. “There’s nothing better than a pair of socks to warm up cold feet.” Ervin’s family bought their first radio so they could listen to Bohemian programming since they didn’t speak English. Ervin himself didn’t learn English until he was seven years old and picked it up from the neighborhood kids. “I taught myself English in a week.”  A carpenter by trade, he taught people around him anything he thought could help them. That giving spirit continued, even just in sharing his advice to younger generations: “Get an education. Get a good job and hang onto it. And maybe, later on, get married.”  Ervin was a World War II Veteran. He was drafted in 1943 and served in France and Germany through 1945. Ervin was a Tech Corporal when he started and was promoted to Tech Sargent when he was discharged. Since he was a carpenter, he worked on building and taking down bridges while he was overseas. Ervin loved gardening, whether it be flowers or vegetables, he loved digging in the dirt! His happiest times were with his family especially his granddaughters and great grandchildren.  Ervin’s motto was, “Smile and be friendly to everybody,” something Ervin tried to do every day. With every smile he gave, as well as his positive attitude, that may have been the secret to his long and beautiful life. He was loving, generous, had a great sense of humor and a soft heart. He will be sorely missed. All who loved him will cherish their time with him and hold him forever in their hearts. Due to his Veteran status and his love of children, Ervin gave generously to those in need. In lieu of flowers please donate to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Wounded Warrior Project in his honor.  Beloved husband of the late Helen; fond son of the late Julie and the late Frank; dear brother the late Frank, ( the late Irla), the late Elsie (the late James) Veselsky, the late William (the late Mary), the late Julie (the late Charles) Moffett; loving father of Ervin F. , Christine (the late Mark) Vent ; dear grandfather of Jennifer (Tim) Murphy and Rebecca (Zach) DeLuca; great-grandfather of Mark Murphy, Abigal Murphy, and Wilson Murphy. Survived and loved by nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

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