Holy Family Institute Mourns the Passing of Charles J. “Chuck” Queenan, Jr.
It is with sadness, gratitude, and deep respect that I share the news of the passing of Charles J. “Chuck” Queenan, Jr.—a pivotal figure in Holy Family Institute’s history and in my own professional life.
Chuck was not only a towering civic and philanthropic leader in Pittsburgh, but he was also a mentor, friend, and guide to me as Holy Family Institute grew and evolved. After the devastating 1984 fire that destroyed the heart of our original building, it was Chuck who helped me launch my first major capital campaign to rebuild our school. More than just helping me fundraise, Chuck was a partner in mission—always teaching, challenging, and believing in what Holy Family Institute could become.
His leadership and confidence in our mission helped set Holy Family Institute on a renewed path — one that allowed our ministries to grow, innovate, and serve thousands more children and families.
Born in Coraopolis and deeply devoted to the Pittsburgh region, Chuck shaped countless institutions through philanthropy, strategic insight, and civic leadership. His example embodies the values Holy Family Institute celebrates throughout this anniversary year: faith in mission, courage in difficult seasons, and commitment to building a better future for others.
As we continue our 125th anniversary observance — honoring the legacy of those who lifted Holy Family Institute to what it is today — we invite our community to remember the Queenan family in prayer.
I invite each of you — our Board, staff, volunteers, families, and friends — to join in prayer for Chuck, his family, and all those touched by his life. May his memory be a blessing, and may his values continue to guide our work and inspire our future.
May we carry forward Chuck’s legacy of excellence, civic duty, and transformational leadership. And may we, like him, use the time we are given “to leave this spinning ball better than we found it.”
In gratitude,
Sister Linda Yankoski
