Richard "Dick" Allen Skrinjar

Richard “Dick” Allen Skrinjar, beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and Coach, age 74, of Pittsburgh PA, passed away peacefully at his home Thursday, June 5, 2025 surrounded by Barbara, his childhood sweetheart and wife of 50 years, and his three sons, Zachary, Gabriel, and Elliott.  

Born January 25, 1951 in Pittsburgh PA, he was the son of the late Edward and Pauline (Leskowak) Skrinjar.  He served as a de-facto father figure to his two younger brothers, David and Joseph, as their father passed away early in his life.  

He maintained many lifelong relationships through his schooling at Central Catholic, neighborhood friends, and the love and support of Anthony (AJ), Mary Ann, and Pat Clemente, who treated him like a son and brother.  

While attending Point Park College, he worked as a DJ for the schools radio station, WPPJ, and at the age of nineteen, began producing the KDKA Morning Show, one of the highest rated programs and stations in the country. 

After working for the current WPXI TV network, he took on the role he was best known for in the Pittsburgh region as the “PennDOT Guy”, appearing on daily radio, TV, and other various media outlets for 20 years.  He had a passion for communications, and formed a reputation for his quick wit, humor, and charm, building the trust and respect of the community as he informed them of critical transportation news and information impacting their commutes and travels.  

The last portion of his career was spent working in the public sector, as Director of Communications under the late Mayor Bob O’Connor, and Director of Citiparks under Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.  His final role is the one he held until his passing, serving District Attorney’s Zappala’s Office as a Senior Justice Advocate.  In this role, he helped lead and advocate for older adults by introducing accessible measures in the county courts.

In his private life, he spent every free moment he could with his sons, while also giving back to the community as a parishioner, coach, and mentor.  He loved all sports, but particularly basketball.  He was happiest when watching his sons play or coach at every competitive level - and especially as the #1 Fan of the Fox Chapel boys varsity basketball team, where his oldest son has coached for 17 years.  

He enjoyed being alongside his wife during their various travels, especially when accompanied by their sons and their families: Zachary & Kelly, Gabriel & Alexandra (and his cherished Vivienne & Harry), and Elliott & Meagan.  He always maintained a positive outlook on life - and if you had the chance to meet him, he would make you feel like you were the most important person in the world.  He maintained inspiration and motivation by looking forward to the upcoming weddings of two of his sons, and the birth of his first grandchild.

Friends will be received at John A. Freyvogel Sons, inc. 4900 Centre Avenue at Devonshire Street on Sunday, June 8th, from 1-5PM, and Monday, June 9th, from 2-8PM.

Funeral Tuesday June 10th, Mass of Christian Burial, at 10AM at St. Raphael Church at 1154 Chislett St., 15206 (At the request of the family, everyone please meet at the church.) (freyvogelfuneralhome.com)

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