John "Jack" Ruzicka Sr.

John M. "Jack" Ruzicka

1942 - 2026

John M. “Jack” Ruzicka Sr, 83, of Lansford, entered into eternal rest Monday, March 30, 2026 in St. Luke’s Hospital, Miners Campus. He was the husband of Joann (Krokovich) Ruzicka. They celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on July 25th of last year. Born in Coaldale, he was a son of the late Paul Sr. and Mary (Macaluso) Ruzicka. He was a graduate of Nesquehoning High School Class of 1960. He was employed in the maintenance department for the Carbon County Housing Authority, he worked security for the John Vanak Detective Agency, and most recently worked for the Faculty Management System of the Panther Valley School District. He was a United States Air Force Veteran. He was a member of the Lansford Fire Company, a member of the Beaver Run Rod and Gun Club, Lehighton, and a member of the 12th Man Club.  He was active in the Knee-High Football program and was an avid Notre Dame Fan. Jack’s love for Panther Valley was one of a kind. He would have been seen working security at the PV athletic events, working the sideline as an equipment manager on Friday nights, and walking the hall during school hours in the Panther Valley School Buildings. Jack always attended any and all sporting events to cheer on all PV athletes.   No matter if they won or lost, he was their #1 fan.

Surviving along with his wife Joann are daughters Donna Wright and her husband Randy of Ashland and Kim Ruzicka of Lansford; sons John Jr. and his wife Samatha of Lansford and George and his wife Karen of Summit Hill; grandchildren Jacinda (Eric), Mark (Halle), Alexa, Alivia, Matthew, Thomas (Kenna), Jack, Elizabeth, and Sara; great grandchildren Liam, Kayden, Kinsley, Guy, Rusty, Mary Kate, and James; and many nieces and nephews.

He was also preceded in death by a brother Paul L. Ruzicka.

 A Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at 11:00 A.M. in the Joseph S. Blazosky Funeral Home, 81 E. Catawissa St., Nesquehoning with Rev. Eric Gruber officiating. Call Monday night 5-8 P.M. and Tuesday morning 10-11:00 A.M. in the funeral home. Donations will be accepted in his name for a Scholarship Fund for a Panther Valley Athlete, c/o Blazosky Funeral Home. Online condolences may be offered at www.blazoskyfh.com.

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