JOHN THOMAS GIDEL /AKA JACK OR FRED

IT IS WITH HEARTFUL SORROW THAT WE ANNOUNCE HE PASSING OF OUR BELOVED John Thomas Gidel, affectionately known as Jack or Fred. JOHN passed away peacefully on July 12, 2026,AT AGE 98 leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and dedication. Born on March 26, 1928, at St. Joseph's Hospital in the South Side of Pittsburgh, PA, John lived a life that was as full as it was inspiring. The beloved son of John J. Gidel and Alice M. Donahoe Gidel. FROM A YOUNG AGE HE EMBODIED THE VALUES OF HARD WORK, INTEGRITY, AND KINDESS INSTILLED IN HIM BY HIS LOVING PARENTS. HE WAS Predeceased by THE LOVE OF HIS LIFE AND devoted wife, Doreen A. Badali Gidel; his BELOVED son, John P. Gidel; and his PRECIOUS granddaughter, Nicole A. Gidel. THOUGH THE LOSSES WERE PROFOUND, JOHN FACED LIFE'S CHALLENGES WITH REMARKABLE RESILLENCE AND GRACE, EVER SUPPORTED BY HIS STRONG FAITH AND THE LOVE OF HIS FAMILY AND FRIENDS. THROUGHOUT HIS LONG AND FULFILLING LIFE JOHN WAS DEDICATED TO FAMILY. HIS LEGACY CONTINUES THROUGH HIS CHILDREN. John is survived by his loving children, Mary (Nick), Kenny (Ronita), and Betty (Gerry). John was a proud grandfather to five grandchildren, Sean (Tarah), Ray (Christa), Eric, Julie (Brian), and Eva (Craig). He had 8 great grandchildren and 2 great great grandchildren. His family extended to his adored canine companions, of whom he was a dog grandfather: Tank, Tinkerbell, Baxter, Churo, Brandi, and Fiona. John's journey was marked by a dedication to service and community. He was a diligent worker, spending long hours as a teamster at the ATTransport Co. and serving as a police officer at Children's Hospital in Pittsburgh, PA. His commitment to others was evident in his lifelong membership at St. Stephen's Church in Hazelwood, where he participated in numerous church activities (ALTAR BOY, MEN'S CLUB)and community service programs LIKE MEALS ON WHEELS EDUCATED AT St. Vincent's in Latrobe, PA, JOHN WENT ON TO LEAD A FULLFILLING CAREER. John received several awards and commendations at Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, a testament to his hard work and dedication. He was also a cherished member of the Moose, where his camaraderie was appreciated by all who knew him. John's life was filled with joy and adventure. He had a deep love for driving anything with wheels and enjoyed being a tour guide at his home in Deep Creek Lake, Maryland. His favorite pastimes included boating, fishing, garage parties, and bonfires where he could share his stories and laughter. A consummate storyteller, John's warmth and humor touched the lives of all who knew him. HIS GENTLE SPIRIT AND UNWAVERING SUPPORT TOUCHED COUNTLESS LIVES LEAVING AN INDELIBLE MARK ON ALLWHO KNEWHIM.His genuine care for others and his zest for life will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by his family and friends. JOHN THOMAS GIDEL WILL BE DEEPLY MISSED, YET HIS SPIRIT WILL FOREVER LIVE ON IN THE HEARTS OF THOSE WHO HAD THE PRIVILEGE OF KNOWING AND LOVING HIM. AS WE GATHER TO CELEBRATE HIS REMARKABLE LIFE, WE ARE REMINDED OF THE PROFOUND IMPACT ONE INDIVIDUAL CAN HAVE ON THE WORLD THROUGH SIMPLE ACTS OF LOVE AND KINDESS. WE LOVE YOU DAD. YOUR MEMORY IS A BLESSING TO US. REST IN ETERNAL PEACE, REUNITE WITH THOSE WHO WENT BEFORE YOU. MOMMY AND JOHNNY ARE WAITING FOR YOU A service to celebrate John's life will be held at Green Funeral Home, Inc., located at 3511 Main Street, Munhall, PA 15120. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made in John's name to a charity of your choice, honoring his legacy of generosity and community spirit.