John S. Flaherty

John S. "Jack" Flaherty, 97, passed away Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2023. He was the beloved husband of the late Lucille (Rodan) Flaherty; father of the Honorable Thomas E. Flaherty (Eileen Kelly), Daniel J. Flaherty, Gregory J. Flaherty, Mary Flaherty Hicks and Virginia M. Flaherty; grandfather of Andrew John Hicks (Kimberly); father-in-law of Michael Cornyn; also, Jack is survived by family friends, Candice Kelly Skalos and Margie Muldoon; nieces and nephews; and his loyal canine companion, Kimba. A lifelong Pittsburgher, Jack grew up in Garfield, was a Veteran of the Navy during WWII, serving along his brothers, Thomas (Marines), Regis (Air Force) and Huck (Army). Upon his return from the Navy, he continued his career with Mesta Machine Co., eventually rising to chief draftsman for 40 years and ended his career at Alcosan for 20 years. After his retirement, his greatest achievement was re-designing and renovating homes in the Shadyside area. Over the last 75 years, he lived in Shadyside where he raised his family, served as an usher at Sacred Heart Church and served as the Democratic Committee Member for over 50 years. Jack was a devoted husband, very giving father, and a true gentleman. Our father never missed a night of kneeling on the floor, and as he would say, "praying to the Lord." As one neighbor said, "Jack was meticulous in his dress, had a twinkle in his eye and always had a cheerful greeting to everyone he saw". The Flaherty family would like to recognize and thank Dr. Zhang from the VA Hospital and Dr. Friedland from Hillman Cancer Center for the wonderful care given to their father over the years. The funeral was held on Saturday Oct. 14, 2023. Arrangements were handled by JOHN A. FREYVOGEL SONS INC., (freyvogelfuneralhome.com). Remembrances may be made to Humane Animal Rescue at www.humaneanimalrescue.org.