John Andrew Haluska, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, veteran, and dedicated member of the community, passed away peacefully on April 20, 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by loving family and friends.

Born on November 3, 1949, in Miami, Florida, John was a proud 3rd-generation Floridian with deep roots in the state. His grandfather was among the early settlers of Melbourne, Florida, in the late 1800s. Raised in the heart of Florida’s wilderness, John spent his youth trapping, hunting, fishing, and helping on the family farm—an upbringing that shaped his lifelong values of hard work, resilience, and service.

In August 1968, John answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. He served with distinction in a Vietnam Engineering Battalion, earning the Vietnam Service Medal with Four Bronze Stars, along with several other commendations. He was honorably discharged in September 1971.

In December 1968, while on leave, John married his beloved wife, Linda Lee Erickson. After his service, the couple settled in her hometown of Port Salerno, Florida, where they built a life together and raised four remarkable children. John and Linda shared 25 devoted years of marriage until her passing in 1995.

John worked as a marine mechanic at Phil’s Motor Repair for 33 years and later continued his trade independently. Earlier in life, he also worked as a commercial fisherman. Known for his reliability, skill, and tireless work ethic, John earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

Later in life, John remained active in community service, notably serving multiple terms as President of the Stuart Moose Lodge. His leadership earned him the prestigious Fellowship Jacket, a reflection of his continued commitment to giving back. He was appreciated not just for his dedication but for his quiet wisdom, genuine humility, and the deep care he showed for the people in his life.

One of John’s closest friends once recalled a long, grueling night they spent recovering heavy equipment from a bog. In the thick of exhaustion, John offered a steady voice of encouragement, saying, “My old man told me, ‘You can give out, but you can never give up.’” It was more than a

saying—it was how John lived. Through every challenge, he pressed on with quiet strength, unwavering resilience, and a humble determination that inspired.

John was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Haluska; his brothers, Thomas Haluska and Carl Collins; and his first wife, Linda Haluska, and grandson Matthew Dray.

He is survived by his loving wife, Phyllis Sidener Haluska; his children: Ollie (Dave) Dray, John “Joey” (Stacy) Haluska, Thomas (Marygrace) Haluska, and Amanda (Ben) Shourds; and his cherished grandchildren: Shelby Dray, Karlee Haluska, Bradley Dray, Andrew Haluska, Maci Shourds, and Kinlee Haluska. He is also survived by his brother, James (Ann) Haluska and family; and his blended family: Sean (Megan) Dray and family; Cachet (Brian) Rodriguez and Chalimar (Stenson) Gregory and family, along with numerous relatives and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 17, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM at The Barn at Mancil Ranch, located at 27401 SW Martin Hwy, Okeechobee, FL 34974. The venue is approximately 15 miles west of I-95 off Exit 110 (Martin Highway), Palm City, Florida, or 2.5 miles east of SR710 (Bee Line Highway).

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Treasure Coast Hospice in honor of John https://www.treasurehealth.org/292/Donate

All who knew and loved John are warmly invited to join in honoring his memory.