Lonnie Dale Folino
June 19, 1947 - November 28, 2024
Service: Tuesday, December 3, 2024, 10 am; Divine Grace Parish, St. Ferdinand Church
On November 28, 2024 Lonnie Dale Folino, age 77, died peacefully at his home surrounded by his loving family after a courageous battle with cancer. His faith was strong and it is with gladness in our hearts that we can share that he now joins his Heavenly Father and his parents John and Margaret Folino (Taylor) who preceded him. He is survived by his loving wife – Margaret Folino (Remy); 4 daughters – Deborah Pyles, Kimberly Deceder, Tricia Folino, and Cristy Herman; 2 sons-in-law Brian Deceder and Jeff Herman; adored Pappy of 7 grandchildren – Tyler Tobin, Brenton Pyles, Remy Deceder, Rose Pyles, Taylor Deceder, Shaun Deceder, and Eleah Deceder; Siblings – John Folino, Bonnie Christmas, and Ron Folino; sisters and brothers-in-law – Josephine Folino, Ronnie Christmas, Lois Folino, Trish Remy, Mary Remy, Janet Helbling and John Helbling (recently deceased), and 9 nieces and nephews.
Lonnie was a respected principal in the Pittsburgh Public School System for 35 years. He worked in numerous elementary schools throughout the city and impacted the lives of many children. He earned his master’s degree in Education from Slippery Rock University where he was also a proud and active member of the TKE Fraternity. It was at Slippery Rock where he met and then married his wife, Margaret and started his family. He raised four daughters while working and volunteered as a coach of a variety of sports, including many of his daughters’ softball and basketball teams. Later in life, he earned his second degree black belt in Tae-Kwon-Do under Master Zang’s instruction and shared his passion for martial arts with his grandchildren and countless students as he became an instructor. After retiring, the best place to find Lonnie was on the golf course. He was a life-long golfer and shared his love for the game with friends and family. Lonnie was an animal lover and couldn’t resist any cat or dog that crossed his path, particularly his beloved dogs Dexter and Duke. However, the most important accomplishment in Lonnie’s life was his family. He will be greatly missed and be most remembered for his quick wit, his impact on so many, his unforgettable quotes, his relaxed personality, and his dedication and devotion to providing for his family.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held for Lonnie at St. Ferdinand Church, Cranberry Township on Tuesday, December 3rd at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers the family is asking that donations be made to the American Cancer Society.
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I worked as a teacher on the northside, Mann elementary when the building was closed for years but re opened with Lonnie as the first administrator back in charge of over 550 students who were bused in from sections of the city. With such a large student population facing many challenges Lonnie told the staff he was offered positions in North Allegheny but chose to remain in an urban city District where he could make a difference with students of need. He showed up every day and gave 100% every day. It was an honor to teach under such a gifted, compassionate, hard working administrator. God speed Lonnie
To a great friend and mentor, God speed! Look forward to riding our cycles together in the Great Plains of Heaven. Save a cold one for me!
I will miss u on the golf course. You were a true friend and fellow principal. Rest in peace!!
I attended SR with Lonnie and was a fraternity brother. My deepest sympathies are extended to his family. 🙏
As a fellowprincipal for PPS I remember many principal meetings with Lonnie. He managed to crack a joke at every one of those meetings. His brother, John and I worked together on summer jobs programs and John was the complete opposite! Both two great colleagues! RIP Lonnie.