[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 26 (Wednesday, February 8, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E106-E107]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF MANUEL PIHAKIS

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. GUY RESCHENTHALER

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, February 8, 2023

  Mr. RESCHENTHALER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the life and 
accomplishments of Manuel Pihakis of Canonsburg, Pennsylvania.
  Mr. Pihakis was a man devoted to his faith and community, where he 
served as a teacher, athletic director, wrestling coach, mayor, and 
school board member for many years. In and around Canonsburg, he was 
renowned for his caring nature and generosity.
  Born the son of Michael and Sophie Pantely Pihakis in 1933, Manuel 
graduated from Canonsburg High School in 1952. He starred as a three-
time PIAA wrestling champion, finishing high school with an impressive 
record of 99-1. Upon graduation, he attended Indiana University, 
earning a degree in 1956. His wrestling success led him to participate 
in the final Olympic tryouts in 1952 and 1956. Manuel's prowess as a 
competitor and a coach has cemented his place in the Pittsburgh Sports 
Hall of Fame, Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame, Washington-
Greene Chapter of Pennsylvania's Hall of Fame, and the Canon-McMillan 
Hall of Honor.
  The years Manuel devoted to his fellow Pennsylvanians have 
immortalized him among the Canonsburg community. He served on many 
committees, including the School Board, the Zoning Board, and the Frank 
Sarris Public Library, among others. Ultimately, he was elected to 
serve his community as Mayor of Canonsburg. Many looked up to him as an 
academic, athletic, and spiritual mentor.
  In 2013, Manuel retired from coaching to spend more time with his 
wife, Evelyn Mahramas Pihakis, and his sons, Michael and George. He was 
strongly devoted to his faith as an active member of the All-Saints 
Greek Orthodox Church in Canonsburg and was awarded the highest honor a 
layman of the church may receive--the Archon of the Order of St. 
Andrew.
  Mr. Speaker, Manuel Pihakis is a hometown hero to Canonsburg, 
Pennsylvania, whose legacy of service to family, faith, and community 
should inspire all Americans. On behalf of the people of Pennsylvania's 
14th Congressional District, I extend my condolences to Mr. Pihakis's 
family and wish them healing during this difficult time.

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