Thomas J. Pikunas

Thomas J. Pikunas obituary, Pittsburgh, PA

Thomas J. Pikunas

Thomas Pikunas Obituary

Published by Legacy on Apr. 14, 2022.
Thomas J. Pikunas
Of Point Breeze on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, age 91. Beloved husband of Margaret Saxon Pikunas; father of Michael Pikunas (Margaret), Mary Price (Rob), Anne Pikunas, Patricia Rieger (Thomas) and Marjory Freedline; grandfather of 14, great-grandfather of 2; brother of the late Walter Pikunas (the late Pauline); also survived by nieces and nephews. Tom was an accomplished athlete and was the last surviving member of the Central Catholic State Champion Basketball Team of 1949. He was the Tristate Foul Shooting Champion for three years running in the early 50s, setting the record in 1951 by making 98 out of 100 free throws. He was also a member of the Slippery Rock University Basketball All Time Roster 1950 – 1953. Tom was a teacher and coach at Edgewood Elementary and High School and held the position of Edgewood Recreation Director for many years. He coached the Edgewood High School Boys Tennis Team to a PA State Championship on two different occasions. Along with his wife Margaret, Tom was a devoted parishioner of St. Bede Church for 57 years. Friends received at McCabe Bros., Inc. Funeral Home, 6214 Walnut Street, Shadyside on Monday, 5-7 p.m., where funeral will commence on Tuesday at 9am., followed by Mass of Christian Burial in St. Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Bede Church at 10 am. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Tom's name to St. Bede School. Condolences may be left at www.mccabebrothers.com

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April 27, 2022

Marg posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2022

Margaret posted to the memorial.

April 15, 2022

Mary Beth "Cookie" Roemele posted to the memorial.

6 Entries

Marg

April 27, 2022

Miss and love you pap

Margaret

April 27, 2022

I miss and love you so much pap

Mary Beth "Cookie" Roemele

April 15, 2022

Mr. Pikunas was my gym teacher at Edgewood elementary and I remember at first I was afraid of him. He never had to correct me. His Marine haircut and stern voice were all that was needed to keep me in compliance.

For every ounce of strength he had, he possessed equal measures of wisdom and sensitivity.

I particularly remember a gym day that had us kids lined up to try climbing two bull ropes suspended from the ceiling. Knowing how much I feared him, he stood at the bottom of that bull rope and waited as I began my struggle. Somehow he came up with the nickname "Cookie" for me and as I pulled and lifted my little self, he yelled, "Cmon Cookie! You can do it!" I'm pretty sure Cookie made it to the top of the rope.

Mr. Pikunas gave me the gift of encouragement and confidence. He knew I needed it.

Thank you, Mr. Pikunas! You were a wonderful human being and you made an important impact on so many kids. Rest in peace.

Paul Robey

April 14, 2022

An Edgewood legend....funny yet so cool, great teacher and wonderful human being, it was pleasure to know such a great man....

John Proctor

April 14, 2022

I'm just one of his 1000's of students "Mr. Pkunas" taught and who loved him. He was such a great teacher. He knew exactly the balance of teaching, guiding and connecting with young kids. So truly unique. I'm sure he lived a great life. I know he was a great husband, father and Grandfather. I'm so sorry to hear of his passing but so glad so many people where touched by Tom in his 91 years. The best to the entire Pikunas family.

Tim Flaherty

April 14, 2022

A teacher, coach, mentor and friend. A true legend with Pop Stoer at the Rock and at Edgewood. Margaret so sorry for your and our loss. Will always remember North Hall and "dog eat dog". Take care and stay safe. t.

Showing 1 - 6 of 6 results

CLOSED-McCabe Brothers Funeral Homes - Shadyside

6214 Walnut St., Pittsburgh, PA 15206

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Sign Thomas Pikunas's Guest Book

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April 27, 2022

Marg posted to the memorial.

April 27, 2022

Margaret posted to the memorial.

April 15, 2022

Mary Beth "Cookie" Roemele posted to the memorial.