John “Chocolate” Gnibus, 80, of Homer City, died on March 24, 2025, at the Indiana Regional Medical Center. He was the son of the late John Andrew and Mary Susan (Mlecik) Gnibus and was born on May 13, 1944, in Coral.
Chocolate was known for his bright smile, infectious laugh and great storytelling. He discovered his love of sports at a young age, where he, along with some of his other friends from a small town (Coral/Homer City) participated in the Little League World Series in Williamsport, PA. His athletic drive carried through Laura Lamar High School (‘62), now Homer Center High School, where Choc was considered a great asset in all sports, setting school records, being voted Team Captain, Most Valuable Player by his teammates & Most Athletic as well. His favorite memory was having his picture taken with Vince and Ron as the “Bronzed Men.”
Upon graduation, Chocolate served in the United States Army and was stationed in South Korea. After returning with honorable discharge, he returned to his family and roots in Coral, PA and made a lifelong career as a coal miner, in which he was a proud member of the UMWA. Choc had a tremendous love of music, specifically 50’s music and polkas. He never forgot going to his first concert- Chuck Berry, and playing his favorite song, “Johnny B. Goode,” which was very fitting for his lively personality. It was at a popular 50’s diner in Indiana, PA, that he met his future wife, Eleanor. Together, they shared a love of 50’s music, polkas, polka dancing, playing pinochle with friends, and always arguing who was right- LOL! Chocolate was also an avid PITT fan and loved tailgating and going to PITT football games on Saturday’s. On Sunday’s, the TV was blocked for the Steelers & Pirates, so no one dared changing the channel or bothering him! If he wasn’t watching a sporting event, Choc would be found in his garden, having friendly competitions with friends and neighbors. As his family grew, “Pop Pop” took pride in babysitting Clare and Annemarie. He enjoyed watching them play soccer, tennis, and compete in swim meets and always encouraged them to do their best & never give up. “Pop Pop” also loved watching them perform in their musicals and dance recitals and with great enthusiasm, introduced his love and their first taste of Baltimore Steamed Crabs. He attended Our Lady of the Assumption and lived his faith by offering food to the homeless at the PITT football games, helpied strangers whose cars broke down and was a great listener who offered gentle advice through his wisdom. Although his kind heart and fun personality will be missed by those who knew him, he’s finally able to polka dance again.
Chocolate is survived by his wife, Eleanor; their two daughters, Christina Gnibus of Homer City and Stephanie (Steve) Falce of Murrysville; his two granddaughters, Clare Falce of Tampa and Annemarie Falce of Murrysville; and his sister, Dorothy Barberich of North Huntington.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his two sisters, Marcella Horchar and Patricia Buzi, and an infant brother.
Friends are invited to visit on Sunday from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Bowser Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc. in Homer City. A funeral service will take place on Monday at 11:00 AM at the funeral home, followed by interment at St. Francis Cemetery in Graceton.
