Louis A. Pisani

Louis A. Pisani, 83, of Winfield Township, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 12, 2023 at Quality Life Services of Sarver. He was born April 30, 1939, in Brackenridge, the eldest son of the late Louis J. and Renille M. (Clabots) Pisani. Lou was a 1957 graduate of Har-Brack High School and a 1961 graduate of the Indiana State Teachers College (I.U.P.), with a bachelor’s degree in music education. He earned his master’s degree in music from I.U.P. as well in 1966 and continued with his education at Penn State and Duquesne University with an additional 60 credits. Lou began his love for music education at Apollo Ridge High School (1961-1963), Plum High School (1963-1964), Tarentum High School (1964-1968), and finally Highlands High School from 1968 until his retirement in 2001. He had the distinction of serving as the district’s first Highlands Senior High Director of Bands from 1968 until 1976. He spent his remaining years at Highlands as the middle school music director.

Music was Lou's life. He took the utmost pride in sharing that love of music with thousands of students throughout his career. As an educator, he instilled in his students a strong work ethic, pride in their performance, emotion from their hearts, and life lessons within his teachings. He fostered a love of music within the hearts and souls of all of his young musicians. As the perfectionist that he was, he took his passion and elicited exceptional performances from all of his bands.

Lou was most proud of being the only band director to direct two different high school bands at the same Alle-Kiski Band Festival (he directed both Plum and Tarentum and switched his jacket between performances), taking his 1974 Highlands High School Marching Band to the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade, performing at the Steelers games at halftime and playing in his dance band, the Al Louis Orchestra. Lou loved to perform and entertain. And a true entertainer he was. Lou would always address parents and concert attendees with uplifting messages of love and laughter during performances. His connection with students and his investment in their education was energizing and contagious. If you were fortunate enough to play an instrument in his band, you were certain to have memories to last a lifetime.

If you knew Lou, you also knew that he adored his wife, Judy. There is no greater love than the love they shared together for over 60 years. Their love was an inspiration to their children and all who met them. He always made sure to bring home bouquets of flowers for his wife every week. Lou also loved his children and grandchildren beyond measure. He took pride in their performances and achievements. From marching band performances to concert band performances, and majorette performances to dance competitions and sporting events and everything in between, Lou would be there to cheer, support, and celebrate those milestones.

In his free time, he enjoyed his antique 1941 Diamond T dump truck that belonged to his father, his antique 1968 Buick Electra convertible, traveling with his wife and family, watching his granddaughters’ perform, shopping with his girls and spending time with his family, even if just for family dinners. Family was everything. As such, he was also fiercely protective of his family and those he loved. Lou knew no strangers. If he met you, you became instant friends. He enjoyed talking with people. He loved people and made everyone feel special. He loved relating with people and sharing stories, lessons, and love. Lou touched the hearts of all people. His legacy will live on, not only within his children and grandchildren, but within the thousands of students he deeply influenced.

Lou is survived by his wife of 58 years, Judy (Zenoski) Pisani; his children, Louis M. (Janet) Pisani, of Allison Park, Mark S. (Beth) Pisani, of Murrysville and Kathleen J. (Jan) Ransom, of Natrona Heights; his two granddaughters, Katelyn Pisani and Elizabeth Ransom; sister, Judith DiLeo, of Brackenridge, several nieces and a nephew and by his best friend and fellow musician, James Lagoon, of Lower Burrell. In addition to his parents, Lou was preceded in death by his brother, Joseph O. Pisani and his nephew Joseph S. Pisani.

The family would like to express our sincere gratitude and appreciation to Quality Life Services of Sarver and especially Tyler for the unwavering love and support that they have shown us all.

Friends will be received on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. and on Friday from 2-4, 6-8 p.m. in the Cicholski-Zidek Funeral Home, Inc., 1522 Carlisle Street, Natrona Heights 724-224-8688,  Funeral ceremonies will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. in the Natrona Heights Presbyterian Church (Everyone is asked to please meet at the church).  Burial will be in Mt. Airy Cemetery, Natrona Heights.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Lou may be made to the Highlands Varsity Band Boosters, P.O. Box 691, Natrona Heights, Pa.  15065.  To send an online condolence please visit www.cicholski-zidekfh.com.