John T. "Jack" Conner

John “Jack” Conner, 97, of Pittsburgh, PA, passed away peacefully on July 21, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Born on June 23, 1929, in Pittsburgh, Jack was one of eight children born to the late Daniel F. Conner and Mary Hellane. His childhood was shaped by the simple joys of city life: baseball games in the streets, homemade root beer, and the lively Sunday dinners that anchored his large, close-knit family. He remained proud of his education at Central Catholic High School, where he formed lifelong friendships and values.

After graduation, Jack answered the call to serve his country in the Korean War, where he served as a Sergeant First Class. He was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, after being wounded while bravely protecting others. His heroism during this time became a defining thread in the story of his life.

Upon returning home, Jack met the love of his life, Jane, with whom he shared 61 years of marriage and raised three children. Their partnership was the heart of his world even after her passing in 2023.

Jack devoted his career to the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire, serving the city with unwavering dedication as a firefighter for 37 years and retiring as a Captain from Engine Co. 16 at Penn and Lang Avenues. He saved countless lives — human and furry alike. His encyclopedic knowledge of Pittsburgh’s back alleys and his uncanny ability to detect even the faintest hint of smoke were legendary among his colleagues and a constant source of awe to his family.

In retirement, Jack poured his time and energy into the people and community he loved. As an eager, often full-time caregiver to his grandchildren, he ensured that adventure was never far away — from Pirates games to plucking massive icicles off the roof for licking. His kitchen was always warm, with loaves of banana bread and pies in the oven, ready to be shared with neighbors or mailed across the country. Every Sunday, he hosted Steelers watch parties for his crew of firefighters and neighbors.

Beneath Jack’s lifelong commitment to service, community, and family was a deep and abiding Catholic faith. He practiced it quietly through daily prayer and humble action — except at Christmas, when he joyfully climbed a ladder well into his 90s to blanket the house in lights, celebrating the birth of Christ with exuberance and gratitude.

Jack is survived by his daughter, Joanie (Paul) McCoy; his sons, Jeffrey (Jeanne) Conner and Jerry (Laura) Conner; his eight grandchildren (Brian, Caitlyn, Erin, Courtney, Bennett, Griffin, Matilda, and Quinn) and five great-grandchildren (Sienna, Maddox, Everette, Teresa, and James); and a legacy of heroism, selflessness, kindness, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who knew him.

Friends will be received at John A Freyvogel Sons, Inc. (freyvogelfuneralhome.com) 4900 Centre Avenue at Devonshire Street on Monday, August 3rd from 3 to 7 p.m. Funeral Tuesday, August 4th at 10 a.m., Mass of Christian Burial, St Mary Magdalene Parish, St. Bede Church (509 S. Dallas Avenue) to celebrate Jack’s life.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Jack’s memory to Central Catholic High School, the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (Council of Pittsburgh), or the Pittsburgh Veteran Firefighters Association.

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