Earl Jay Habic, 88, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 21, 2020 at his residence. Earl was born in Wyatt, Indiana on November 21, 1931 and raised by the late Russell Shinn and Frank and Christine (Conrad) Habic. In addition to his parents, a daughter Susan Myers and sister-in-law Patricia Habic preceded him in death.

Surviving are his children, son Brian (Betsy Hershberger) Habic, daughter Julie (David) McGrath; and his brother Ray Habic; as well as 6 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

Earl enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served during the Korean War from 1951 until his honorable discharge in 1955. After the war he worked as a press punch operator at NIBCO for 42 years before he retired.  Earl enjoyed watching western movies, especially John Wayne movies. He also loved to vacation in San Antonio Texas where had been stationed while serving in the Air Force.  He enjoyed eating out and always tipped the waitress with 50 cent pieces. Family and friends say he "was the kindest man you ever met."

Visitation will be from 11-1 p.m. Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at Billings Funeral Home, 812 Baldwin St. Funeral services will follow at 1:00 pm. Chaplin Andy Williams from DAV #19 officiating. Burial with military honors by the U.S. Air Force Base Honor Guard and DAV #19 will follow at Prairie Street Cemetery. The family request memorials to Elkhart Co. Humane Society or Center for Hospice Care. Online condolences may reach the family at the Billings Funeral Home website.

Elkhart County Humane Society
54687 County Road 19, Bristol IN 46507
Tel: 1-574-848-4225
Web: http://www.info@elkharthumanesociety.org

Hospice Foundation
501 Comfort Place, Mishawaka IN 46545
Tel: 1-800-413-9083
Email: info@foundationforhospice.org
Web: https://foundationforhospice.org/donate/