Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
Call now for immediate attention: 772-999-5547
R. Wayne Habermehl, 86, of Port Saint Lucie, Florida, formerly of Lafayette Hill, Pennsylvania, passed away on Thursday, April 23, 2026 at Heavenly Adult Care Assisted Living Facility in Port Saint Lucie, surrounded by his loving wife of 37 years and her supportive friends Joan Corbo and Sharron Stone.
Born in Joplin, Missouri, he was the son of the late Roland W. and Ruth (Kelly) Habermehl.
Wayne earned a BS degree at Louisiana Polytechnic Institute, an MS degree at Kansas State University, and a PhD at the University of Massachusetts. He was elected to membership of the BETA BETA BETA Biological Honors Society and was also among “Who’s Who Among American Teachers”. Wayne dedicated 47 years to teaching at the University level.
He was an avid sailor on the Chesapeake Bay, a Philadelphia Eagles fan, and enjoyed seeing the USA while camping.
Wayne was a kind and gentle hearted soul who liked reading and exploring. He was an excellent husband.
Wayne is survived by his wife of 37 years, Cathi of Port Saint Lucie, formerly of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; two daughters, Kim Herbert and her husband Dan of Jenkintown, Pennsylvania and Emily Habermehl and her husband, Moise Viator of Austin, Texas; his brother, Larry Habermehl of Longmeadow, Massachusetts; and four grandchildren.
Contributions as a Memorial may be made to the Treasure Coast Hospice, 5000 Dunn Road, Fort Pierce, Florida 34981.
Our caring professionals are here to assist you and your family during this difficult time. We are available 24 hours, 7 days a week to assist in immediate arrangements or pre-arrangements.
Christopher Harendza
May 6, 2026, 11:50 pm
I taught alongside Wayne for many years – he was a fantastic mentor. I will never forget his laugh and wit – always welcoming and a pleasure to work with. I learned and relearned so much biology from Wayne – he pointed out to me many salient details regarding photosynthesis, plants, fungi and algae and it helped me tremendously in my own teaching. Wayne was a hard worker and held his students to high standards – and never hesitant to speak his mind at faculty meetings, etc. He had tremendous impact on me and my career. I’ll never forget Wayne. My heartfelt condolences to Kathy and the family.
Gordon Mair
May 7, 2026, 6:45 pm
Dear Cathi, Kim, Emily and Larry,
Anne and I were deeply saddened to learn of Wayne’s passing. I think I met Wayne at his 55th birthday celebration and always enjoyed his and Cathi’s company, particularly sailing on the Chesapeake. Wayne inspired us to acquire a sailboat, which, regrettably, never made it out of the driveway. No disrespect to Wayne – just couldn’t make the time to learn how to sail and Wayne set a very high standard, as he apparently did with his biology students.
We will always cherish the good times we had with Wayne and Cathi and express our deepest sympathies.
Anne knew Wayne much longer than I did and will be posting a condolence as well.
Albert Baccari
May 7, 2026, 10:13 pm
I am very sorry to hear of Wayne’s passing. He was my colleague and mentor for 40 years in the Biology Department at Montgomery County Community College in Blue Bell, PA. He taught non major’s biology and major’s biology. He was thorough, professional and rigorous and his students met the bar that he raised. As such, many went on and were successful in getting a Bachelor’s degree at 4 year colleges and universities, with some going on to higher graduate degrees as well. I feel fortunate, privileged and proud to have known him as a friend and colleague.
Barb Carfagno
May 8, 2026, 1:48 pm
Cathy and family, I send my sincere condolences. Wayne was a gem and I always looked forward to seeing him when I came to work. He was so easy to work with, always kind.
I’ve thought about you both over the years.
Wayne will always be remembered as one of my favorite faculty at MCCC.