Samuel Joseph Gengo

Born on November 3, 1961, Sam was formerly of Vandergrift, Pennsylvania, and a proud graduate of Kiski Area High School and the University of Pittsburgh, where he remained a lifelong and loyal Panther. No matter how far his travels took him, his heart never strayed far from Pittsburgh, especially when it came to cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers and visiting his family.

Sam built a long and accomplished career as an engineer at Raytheon, where he combined his sharp mind with his fascination for rockets and flight. He enjoyed building model airplanes, earned his pilot’s license, and traveled extensively for both work and pleasure. An avid cyclist, he was a member of the Beach City Cycling Club, and he also had a passion for photography.

Known for his fun-loving spirit, Sam had an uncanny sense of timing, always ready with a smile or perfectly placed joke to lighten the moment. In one unforgettable instance, he dressed as Pikachu and appeared on national television, a memory that captures his playful personality and willingness to embrace life fully. Above all, Sam fiercely loved his family, especially his nieces and nephews, in whom he took great pride. Sam will be remembered for his brilliant mind, adventurous spirit, deep loyalty, and the joy he brought into every room.

Sam is survived by his sisters, Toni (Ed) Fisher and Gloria Gengo; his nephew Anthony (Janeen) Fisher; his niece Jean (Brian) Querry; great nephews Nick (Sara) Fisher, Brandon Fisher, and Tyler Querry; and great niece Victoria Querry. He was preceded in death by his parents, Anthony and Eleanor Gengo.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, April 18 at 1:00 PM at the North Apollo Church of God in North Apollo, Pennsylvania.