Regis Henry Schilken, Jr.

On Friday, July 16, 2021, Regis Henry Schilken, Jr. passed peacefully at his home in Bethel Park surrounded by family, love, and music. Regis was born in Pittsburgh on August 19, 1939, to Florence Jacob Schilken and Regis Henry Schilken, Sr. He enriched his own quest for answers and education through completion of the seminary program at Saint Vincent College and an advanced educator’s program at the University of Pittsburgh. He gave back his knowledge for 35 years as a teacher and supervisor in the Pittsburgh Public Schools focused on special education. After his retirement, Rege spent more time writing books, stories, and elevating his love for Lionel trains.  Rege filled those around him with warmth and support through countless hours discussing life, sharing experiences, hypothesizing about the beyond, and enjoying the present – his family, nature, creatures big and small, and all the sweet flavor he could find.

Rege was preceded in death by his parents; his sister Nancy Krebs and brother-in-law Ken Krebs; his nephew and buddy Mark Schilken; and his sister-in-law Kathy Thompson. He is survived by his wife and best friend of 54 years, Jennie; his daughter Cathy Schilken (Chris Ruscitti); his daughter Marnie Schilken (Shane Freeman); his daughter Sunitha Somanath (Bruce Giroux); his grandchildren Haven, Greyson, Milan, and Rowan; his brother Charlie Schilken (Eileen); his in-laws Bill Markey, Mike Markey, Paul Markey (Penny), Betty Markey (Don Herman); and a multitude of nieces and nephews.

Services are private. As a celebration of Rege's life, his family asks that donations be made to Casa San Jose, 2116 Broadway Ave, Pittsburgh PA 15216, www.casasanjose.org.