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Howard Edward Dabrawsky, age 79, passed away peacefully at his home on August 9, 2026 surrounded by his loving family.
He was born on January 15, 1947 in Glen Dale, WV.
He graduated from Union High School on June 2, 1964. He enlisted with the US Army on January 10, 1966.
Howard Dabrawsky, call sign Shaggy One Alpha, Sergeant E5 was a Crew Chief/Door Gunner with 7th Squadron 17th Air Calvary regiment, also known as the Ruthless Riders. His deployment to Vietnam was from October 9, 1967 to November 1968. He was stationed at Camp Enari, Plieku. During the Tet offensive, his unit earned a Presidential Unit Citation for extraordinary heroism and combat reconnaissance. During the period from November 5 to November 30, 1967, he actively participated in more than 25 aerial missions over hostile territory. For this he received The Air Medal and a second Air Medal for the period between December 1, 1967 to July 5, 1968. He also received an Army Commendation Medal with Valor. He was honorably discharged on January 9, 1972.
He was a coal miner, mechanic, electrician with Consol Coal Shoemaker Mine for 36 years. He was a member of Our Lady of Peace Church and UMWA.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Mary Patricia (Kenzora) Dabrawsky of Benwood Hill; two sons, Howard E. Dabrawsky II, of Benwood Hill, Brian M. (Lisa McGlumphey) Dabrawsky of Dallas, WV; one sister, Sharon (Gaylerd) Hull of Benwood Hill; three grandchildren, Chelsea Dabrawsky of Wheeling, Ashely (Chris) Fisher of Dallas, WV, Brian Michael (fiance Morgan Magers) Dabrawsky of Glen Dale; five great-grand children, Colton, Kinley, and Sutton Hillberry, Harper and Michael Fisher; two nieces, Jeannie (Matt) Nelson and Michelle (Tom) McFarland; nephew, Gay (Lorry) Hull; seven great nephews, Tanner (Brooke), Tanner II, Bryce, Wyatt (Kacey), Gage, Aidan Greaves, Jacob Nelson; three great nieces, Katelyn (Austin), Ellie, and Emmie Warsinsky; two brothers-in-law, Joe and Ray Kenzora; three sisters-in-law, Judy (Greg) Zawacki, Joyce (Michael) Schramm, and Rita (Mark) Roth; as well as several other nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.
He is predeceased by his parents Edward M. and Gertrude C. (Wolfe) Dabrawsky and great granddaughter, Harley Fisher.
Family will receive friends Monday from 4-8 p.m. at Grisell Funeral Home and Crematory 1 Ridgecrest Rd Wheeling/Bethlehem with funeral service Tuesday at 11 a.m. with Fr, Tijo George officiating. Vigil service Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Interment at Mt. Calvary Cemetery where the Moundsville Honor Guard will conduct military graveside services.
Memorial contributions may be made to Valley Hospice or Our Lady of Peace Catholic Church.
Sympathy expressions at grisellfuneralhomes.com.