Whitehall, PA community mourns beloved Lehigh County Special Olympics basketball and volleyball coach Vello P. Vilbas Sr., 70, survived by wife Deborah and family
CoachSuruchiJanuary 10, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on January 9, 2026
The Whitehall, Pennsylvania, community is mourning the death of beloved longtime coach and owner of VPV Construction, Vello P. Vilbas Sr.
Vello Pete Vilbas Sr. passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2026, at the age of 70 in his home in Whitehall, Pennsylvania, surrounded by his family.
Born in Miami, Florida, to late parents Vladimir and Saimi (Merilo) Vilbas, Vello was a cherished member of the Miami and Pennsylvania sports community and touched the lives of many with his decades-long coaching journey.
Vilbas Sr. excelled in multiple sports while attending Miami Central High School and later continued his academic journey at Miami Dade Community College with degrees in Architectural Technology and Building Construction Technology.
For years, he served as a coach for Tri-Boro Soccer Association, leading his team in several victories.
Additionally, he also served as the basketball and volleyball coach for the Lehigh County Special Olympics.
Vello coached the 5v5 Basketball and Volleyball team and also led the Lehigh County soccer team to the USA games in 2014.
Team Lehigh-Special Olympics PA took to its official social media to pay tribute to longtime coach Vello (Pete) Vilbas and wrote:
“Pete was loved and admired by all. Pete was known for his never-ending care and compassion for the athletes. He always went above and beyond for them. When he saw a need he jumped in and helped, no matter what the need (rides, socks, sneakers and more). Pete was loved and admired by his athletes and fellow coaches. He coached with patience and instilled confidence in each of the athletes to be the best they could be. We were all blessed to have known such an amazing man.”
Team LehighThe Late Vello Vilbas Owned His Own Construction Company Since 1980
Beyond his exceptional coaching journey, Vello Pete Vilbas Sr. contributed to the Whitehall community as a proud owner of VPV Construction, a company he owned from 1980 until his recent passing.
He also worked for RB Bracy Construction and Rizzetto Construction. Vello developed a love for building and creating from a very young age and followed his passion throughout his life.
Additionally, Vello was a member of St. John’s Ev. Lutheran Church in Whitehall, where he served faithfully as a member and chairperson of the Property Committee, and as a Youth Group Leader.
Vello Vilbas also served the community as a volunteer firefighter for over 35 years in the Whitehall Township Fire Department.
His contribution to the Pennsylvania community as a proud coach, firefighter,and great businessman will always be remembered.
Vello Pete Vilbas, senior, is survived by his wife of 50 years, Deborah Bartholomew Vilbas, his three sons, Vello Jr. (Natalia), Matthew (Jessica), and Timothy; his grandson, Alexander, and granddaughters, Faith, Emma, and Sophie.
Vilbas also leaves behind his brother Toomas (Vilja), three nephews, one great-niece, and the entire family.
Vello was preceded in death by his brothers Matti and Toivo and a sister, Annely.
Memorial and Funeral services will be held on Monday, January 19, 2026, at 11:30 am in Saint John’s Ev. Lutheran Church, 835 Third Street, Whitehall, PA, where his family will receive guests beginning at 10:00 AM.
Whitehall Township Fire Department Honors will be bestowed following his Service in the Church. Interment will be private.
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SuruchiSuruchi is a business management student with a strong passion for writing, particularly when it comes to sports. She loves creating articles and blogs that explore various aspects of the sports world. With a curious mind and a love for both academics and creativity, she constantly seeks to expand her knowledge and share her insights through her writing.
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