Frederick Lee Haberlen

Frederick (Fred) Lee Haberlen, 83, of Ligonier, PA, died on October 29, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.  Fred was the son of the late Roy C. Haberlen and Helen Youmans Haberlen. He was born June 1, 1942, in Latrobe. He is survived by his beloved wife of 58 years, Brenda. Fred has promised to keep an eye on her and protect her from afar. 

Fred is also lovingly remembered by his sister, Rebecca DeChellis of Jeannette and brother, Philip Haberlen (Kim) of Greensburg.  He is also survived by his loving children, Dr. Jennifer Haberlen Campbell (John) of New Albany, OH, and James Douglas Haberlen (Erika) of Redondo Beach, CA.  Grandchildren include Sarah (London, Eng), Jack (Dallas, TX), Laura (New York, NY) Campbell, and Mason & Mia Haberlen (Redondo Beach, CA). He is also remembered fondly by his brother-in-law, Basil (“Bud”) Brownfield of Ligonier, and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Fred graduated from Ligonier Valley, Class of 1960.  He played basketball and football, took part in class plays, and even tried his hand at a musical instrument—though the band director gently suggested he stick to sports.

After graduation, Fred attended WVU and then Slippery Rock State College, where he graduated in 1966. In the summers, he lifeguarded, did other manual labor jobs, and frequently road tripped to visit Brenda.

After graduating from ‘The Rock,’ Fred became a middle school teacher at Derry Area, teaching physical education and health and serving as department head for several years. Over his 33-year career, he coached 67 athletic seasons in Cross Country, Tennis, Basketball, Track & Field, and Football. When he wasn’t teaching or coaching, Fred might be caught performing in faculty musicals or playing softball with colleagues—but no matter how busy, he always made it home to Ligonier to cheer on his children in their sports and activities.

Fred was an active member of the Covenant Presbyterian Church in Ligonier (serving many years as a Deacon/Elder), the Westmoreland County Coaches Association, the ROMEO’s (Retired Old Men Eating Out), and Tuesday morning breakfast prayer group.  He volunteered with Meals on Wheels as a driver and board member and taught swimming for the YMCA preschool program.

After retiring, Fred and Brenda started to travel. They traveled internationally throughout Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Canada. They spent many winters in Destin, FL and Palm Springs, CA; enroute to those destinations, they enjoyed visiting National Parks and Presidential Libraries. Their trips were always filled with singing “the oldies” and country music and having endless adventures.

Fred spent many hours in his yard and flower garden and many years trying to learn the sport of golf.  His other interests included quality time with his family and grandchildren, dominating the tennis courts, following the Steelers & Pirates, dining out, traveling, and laughing with friends- but his greatest joy was simply being with Brenda.  With his passing, Fred would like to be remembered as a good husband, father, and friend. He will definitely be remembered for his sense of humor, quick wit, and selfless ways.

Funeral arrangements will be handled by McCabe Funeral Home of Ligonier.  A funeral service will take place at the Covenant Presbyterian Church in Ligonier, PA, starting at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 8, 2025, with a fellowship reception from 3-5 p.m.   A celebration of his life will be held at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made “in Memory of Fred” to Covenant Presbyterian Church at 200 N. Market St, Ligonier, PA 15658.  Alternatively, in the Ligonier Valley School District Foundation at Box 763, Ligonier, PA 15658.