Kenneth R. Gianella

Kenneth “Fish” Gianella

Kenneth Raymond Gianella, affectionately known as “Fish,” passed away peacefully at home in Duquesne Heights on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, at the age of 78. He was born on July 13, 1946, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Pasquale “Patsy” and Velma (Brannigan) Gianella.

Kenneth spent his formative years at St. Mary of the Mount Catholic School, where he played baseball under Hall of Fame coach Willie Miller, winning two Catholic League Titles with the Mounties. After graduating in 1964, he attended Duquesne University, becoming a member of the Alpha Epsilon fraternity and earning a Bachelor of Science in Education. He then pursued his Master’s degree in Education at the University of Pittsburgh. Ken went on to teach at Westinghouse High School (Westinghouse Academy) for over a decade, where he coached the baseball team and served as a mentor for the Student Council.

After retiring from teaching, Ken transitioned full-time to the “family business” as a stagehand for the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees Local #3 (IATSE). He had worked part-time with IATSE since the age of 18 and went on to build a career spanning over 50 years. Throughout his life, Ken was a dedicated advocate for union rights and causes.

Outside of work, Ken was a lifelong fan of the Steelers, Pirates, and Pitt Panthers. He also dedicated his time to several athletic, Catholic, and community causes. He coached baseball at the Pony League, American Legion, and City League High School levels. In soccer, he coached both outdoor and indoor teams, was a founding member of the Pleasant Hills Soccer Club, helped establish the Century V Soccer Club, and served as President of the North Hills Soccer Club. Off the field, Ken volunteered with the Mount Washington Community Development Corporation, St. Mary’s of the Mount Alumni Committee, and other local initiatives.

Ken also served as the president of the Mike Creighton Foundation. Under Ken’s leadership, the foundation celebrated its 15th annual golf tournament and luncheon this year. The event brought together business and community leaders from across the Pittsburgh region, raising funds to support the educational advancement of college students and furthering the foundation’s mission. 

In recognition of his efforts, Ken “Fish” Gianella was inducted into the Mt. Washington Hall of Fame in 2020.

Of all Ken’s accomplishments, his greatest pride was being a father and grandad. He was deeply proud of his family and the people they have become. Ken is survived by his children, Kenneth (Heidi) Gianella, Kari (Bob) Briski, Adam (Meghan) Gianella, and David (Janaina) Gianella; his grandchildren, Gabriella, Gavin, Ayla, Zara, and Reagan; and his siblings, Gail (Tom) Manion and Patsy (Cathy) Gianella. He was preceded in death by his sister, Patricia Gianella.

To pay final respects to Ken, a visitation will be held for family and friends on Monday, October 21, from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Brusco-Falvo Funeral Home, 214 Virginia Ave, Mt. Washington, PA 15211. A funeral mass will be held on Tuesday, October 22, at St. Mary of the Mount Church/Mary, Queen of Peace Parish at 10 a.m., (Please meet at the church) followed by burial at Calvary Cemetery in Homestead, PA. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the no-kill animal shelter, Animal Friends, at https://www.thinkingoutsidethecage.org/donate-now/.

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