John Milton "Coach" Labonte, age 56 of Portage, IN passed away at his home surrounded by his loving family on Friday, September 9, 2022. He was born on July 9, 1966 in Gary, IN to Billy and Mary (Hall) Labonte.
John is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Veronica "Roni" (Berg) Labonte; mother, Mary Labonte; two sons, Brandon English, Nathan Labonte; daughter, Alexis Labonte; sister, Tamara (Dave) Heaton; mother in law, Margaret Berg; brother in law, Leo Berg; nephews, Ross Craft, and Michael Heaton; and many extended family and many friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, Billy J. Labonte; father in law, Vernon "Pete" Berg.
John graduated from Chesterton High School, class of 1984. He worked as a Switchman for Indiana Harbor Belt Railroad for 28 years. John coached Portage Little League and Portage Pop Warner. He was a very active and accomplished bowler. John was a family man and loved his family very much. He was also very much loved by his coworkers and friends.
Funeral Ceremony will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 at 5:00 pm at Edmonds & Evans Funeral Home Portage Chapel, 6941 Central Avenue, Portage, IN 46368. A visitation will be held on Wednesday, September 14, 2022 from 2:00 pm until the time of services at 5:00 pm at the funeral home. Because John was such a big fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears, the family requests those in attendance please wear your favorite sports team (no Packers!) attire.