John W. Urban

John William Urban (Chub) age 89, resident of Roxborough, PA, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren on Tuesday September 28th.  John was born in Allentown, PA on December 29, 1931.  He was the son of the late Frances Spaar-Urban and John Urban.  He was the brother of Gary Urban of Bethlehem, PA and the late Patricia Remaly.  John met his wife of 68 years at the young age of 11.  John served in the military as a radar technician during the Korean War.  He loved to sing and started at four years old singing at Dorney Park.  His stage name was Little Chubby Urban, which landed him on the front of several Kodak brochures. 
Later in life, he enjoyed singing his favorite song, My Way by Frank Sinatra, whenever he got the chance. 

John played Santa for family and friends for over 40 years.  Neighbors would sign up for him to stop at their house and would leave a gift at their doorstep for Santa’s bag. The children would be so excited that Santa knew exactly what they wanted. He always gave them an orange and a candy cane.

He worked his whole life for Willet Stained Glass Windows in Chestnut Hill.  John was always on the road restoring stained glass windows in churches all over the country including the local Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge Park. 

John is survived by his wife, Jeanette (Graver) Urban, daughters: Kathleen Urban, Cynthia Silver-Urban, sons: Michael Urban, Barry Urban (Marianne), Robert Urban (Linda), and daughter-in-law Donna Urban.  He was predeceased by sons Thomas Urban and Todd Urban.  He was the loving grandfather of 23 and great-grandfather of 19.   

A viewing will be held at Koller Funeral Home (6835 Ridge Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19128) on Sunday evening, October 3rd from 6:00-8:00pm and Monday morning October 4th from 9:00-10:00am.  Funeral service to follow at 10:00am.  Interment at George Washington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, donations in his memory may be made to Caring Hospice Services, 400 Commerce Drive, Fort Washington, PA 19034.

 

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