November 18 1944 February 15 2020
PIKO, Lawrence “Larry” Emil, 75, of Wheeling, died Saturday, February 15, 2020. Selflessness is defined as concern more with the needs and wishes of others than with one’s own. This statement epitomizes the life and legacy of Larry Piko. He approached life with an infectious smile, easy laugh, and unwavering morals that allowed him to leave this Earth and all those surrounding him better because of him. Larry was born in Wheeling to John and Jennie Piko on November 18, 1944. He was a graduate of Wheeling Central Catholic High School in 1962 and went on to proudly serve in the United States Air Force from 1962-1966. Larry married the love of his life Joan Lee Peiffer on September 20, 1969. They celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary this past year surrounded by love, laughter, family, and friends. Larry was a loving husband, father, and grandfather and a great friend. He was kind to all and loved children and animals. Larry had a green thumb, an artistic eye, and the creative hands of a true craftsman. He was a resolute fan of WVU sports, supporting his team through the good and the bad. Larry took personal responsibility for each win and each loss, even changing his WVU gear if needed to save the team a win. Spending his career of 34 years in the “Nail City”, he crafted handmade cut nails for Wheeling-Pittsburgh Steel’s LaBelle Cut Nail and was a member of the United Steelworkers. Larry served as a member of the Knights of Columbus at Our Lady of Peace Church. He was a member of the Cave Club and Warwood Vets Club and volunteered regularly in his church and community. Larry is preceded in death by his parents John Piko and Jennie Piko. Larry’s proudest achievement in life is the family he leaves behind. He is survived by his wife Joan Piko of Wheeling; three daughters and one son, Julie (Jeff) Ryan of Wheeling, Amy Piko of St. Petersburg, FL, Laura (Steve) Bush of Wheeling, Larry (Valerie) Piko of Wheeling; eight grandchildren, Jenna Hill, Jake Hill, Kamden Ryan, Cooper Bush, Austin Bush, Clair Bush, Ann Piko, Larry Piko; three siblings Donald Piko, Patricia Bock, Mary Kay (Jim) Laughlin all of Wheeling; sister-in-law Patricia Ryan of Wheeling and brother-in-law Clark Marshall of Levering, MI. Numerous nieces and nephews, and many friends who are more like family. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, February 22, 2020 at 11 am Our Lady of Peace Church, 2 Allendale Road, Wheeling, with Rev. Joseph Augustine as celebrant. Military honors will follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Peace Parish, 2 Allendale Road, Wheeling, WV 26003 or to Russell Nesbitt Services, Inc., 431 Fulton Street, Wheeling, WV 26003.
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Lawrence Emil Larry Piko November 18 1944 February 15 2020.
Death notice for the town of: McMechen, state: West Virginia