Carl A. Flecker, Jr.

On November 21, 2025, Carl Anthony Flecker, Jr., a retired dentist, former Pitt professor, novelist, father, brother and grandfather, passed away quietly surrounded by family in Santa Barbara. He was 83 years old.

Born on March 19, 1942 to Carl Sr. and Betty Flecker, Carl grew up in Point Breeze and the surrounding areas. In his teenage years he enjoyed working summers as a lifeguard at North Park Pool and running around with his "East Liberty boys." He also developed a love for music, DJ-ing high school dances where he drew inspiration from the legendary Wolfman Jack. He would fill the room with the soulful melodies of Elvis, The Platters and Buddy Holly, among others, adding his unique touch along the way.

Carl graduated from Central Catholic High School and went on to attend the University of Notre Dame and the University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine, where he taught and lectured for 18 years as an Associate Clinical Professor of Anesthesia. Eventually he chose to follow in his father's footsteps by joining the family dental practice C.A. Flecker and Associates in 1969. He later went on to study forensic science, another passion, at the Wecht Institute of Forensic Science at Duquesne University Law School.

For 53 years, Carl distinguished himself in the field of dentistry, beginning with offices in East Liberty and eventually Fox Chapel. He earned a reputation for excellence and dedicated service throughout the community and larger Pittsburgh area. His patient-centered approach was exemplified with his carefully curated playlists selected specifically for the individual in the chair.

It was in Fox Chapel that Carl raised his seven children, enjoying summer trips boating at Deep Creek Lake and steak dinners to a soundtrack of 50's doo-wop music, champagne and a fine cigar.

A gifted writer and avid reader, Carl went on to author several suspense novels filled with murder, mystery and the relentless pursuit of justice. Having spent innumerable hours with real men and women, he found just as much joy immersed in the world of imaginary characters, free to explore the worlds of forensic science, morality, the rule of law and the search for truth.

Above all else, Carl was a loving and giving father whose legacy lives on through his seven children: Carl (Erin) and grandchildren Emily, Sarah, and Ryan; Michael (Elizabeth) and grandchildren Luke, Malia, and Cole; Molly and grandchildren Connor and Cameron; Katie (Karim) and grandchildren Oscar, Sebastian, and Felix; Susan (Patrick) and grandchildren Devin and Sloane; Daniel (Kristen) and grandchildren Gabriel and Bryce; and Christopher. He is also survived by the mother of his children, Roberta Flecker.

He is remembered by his sisters Alice (the late Bill), Sara (Patrick), and his close friend of many years Janet Martha, who shared in the joys and challenges of life alongside him, as well as many nieces and nephews. Carl was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Betty and Carl Flecker Sr., also a Pittsburgh dentist whose principled life helped influence the man his son became.

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life to honor Carl's memory at Jimmy Wan's Restaurant (1337 Old Freeport Road, Pittsburgh) March 21, 2026 from 4:00-7:00. He will be laid to rest at Allegheny Cemetery.