John H. Pienta
1948-2026
John H. Pienta
John Henry Pienta passed away, peacefully, on May 20th, 2026, at his home in Dunkirk, NY, surrounded by his loving family. A life-long resident of Dunkirk, John attended Cardinal Mindszenty High School, enlisted in the United States Army, made a career at Dunkirk Specialty Steel, raised a loving family, and enjoyed outdoor sportsmanship. At work, he was an annealer, but his life’s passion was fishing. He owned and captained the commercial fishing vessel, “The Margaret Ann,” for more than 25 years on the waters of Lake Erie. In fact, he was known to have fishing “in his blood,” and would navigate the Lake like he “owned it.” On land, “Captain John” enjoyed deer hunting.
Above all, John was a loving father and grandfather, and was proud to serve his country, community, and family. He was preceded in death by his parents, the late Henry J. and Dorothy (Pleva) Pienta, his sister, Cynthia (James) Chapman, of Texas and M.R.P. He was the loving father of his son, Scott, and daughter Margaret; Grandfather to Christopher Gallivan; and is survived by Kathy Kessler.
A memorial service, with full military honors, will be held on Saturday, May 30 at 7 PM at the FANTAUZZI FUNERAL HOME, 82 E Main St, Fredonia, NY. Friends and relatives may call, starting at 3PM at the funeral home.
The family asks that donations may be made, in John’s honor, to the St. Jude Research Hospital at stjude.org, or by mail at: 262 Danny Thomas Place, Memphis, TN 38105.