John D. Habes Jr

Obituary of John D. Habes, Jr

John Daniel Habes Jr.: June 21, 1944 - November 29, 2025

John Daniel "JD" Habes lived life to the fullest and shared his generous, spirited heart with everyone he loved. To many he was "JD," to his children he was "Dad," to his grandchildren "Grandpa," and (by his own cheerful insistence) "PapaAbuelo" to his youngest grandson, Ryo.

Born with a gregarious and adventurous nature, John devoted himself to a wide array of interests and traditions. Golf, a sport passed down from his father, became a lifelong passion. Family reunions at Durand Eastman Golf Course, affectionately known as "Habes Day," were cherished annual gatherings where aunts, uncles, and cousins came together to play and celebrate. Whether on the course or watching his beloved Golf Channel, John found joy in every swing.

Equally strong was his love of horse racing. Summers were punctuated by pilgrimages to Saratoga Race Course in New York and to Hialeah in Florida, fixtures on his yearly calendar. He followed major racing events around the world and delighted in placing wagers at many of the courses he visited. His travels took him to renowned international racetracks including Hipódromo El Comandante in Puerto Rico, Happy Valley and the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Hipódromo Gávea in Brazil, and the Curragh in Ireland. Closer to home, he enjoyed outings to the Finger Lakes track with friends, and Saratoga remained his favorite August destination.

John was a proud alumnus of the University of Mississippi, "Ole Miss," where his loyalty to the Rebels ran deep. He followed the university's football and basketball teams with unwavering enthusiasm. A graduate of East Ridge High School, John distinguished himself as a talented half-miler on the track team, a foundation for the energetic life he would go on to lead.

After many dedicated years of teaching in the Rochester City School District, John found his greatest pride and joy in his children, Courtney Walker and Juan Daniel Habes, and later in his adored grandchildren. He created special traditions for Lyla and Wesley, including large, imaginative birthday cakes; Lyla's towering princess castle and Wesley's full soccer-field design were family favorites. Seasonal outings like strawberry picking and spontaneous deliveries of oversized Perry's pizza slices were gestures of love that became treasured memories.

John's love story with his wife, Dolores, began at James Monroe High School in Rochester in 1985. His heartfelt letters (and his undeniable charm) won her over, and the two were married that November. Their partnership was marked by deep affection, humor, and steadfast devotion.

John loved intensely and was just as deeply loved in return. His presence filled every room, every family gathering, and every adventure. His memory will continue to live vibrantly in the hearts of his family and friends.

Until we see him again.

Family and friends may call at Paul W. Harris Funeral Home, 570 Kings Hwy. So, Wednesday, December 10, 2025 from 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM, where his Funeral Service will follow. Interment private. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider donations to American Cancer Society or American Heart Association in John's memory.