Charles M. “Charlie” Piantieri

Charles M. “Charlie” Piantieri, 83, passed away peacefully on July 3, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family.

 

Born on December 19, 1942, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Charlie was the son of the late Victoria M. and John M. Piantieri. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, Charlie lived a life centered on family, hard work, and appreciation for life’s simple pleasures.

 

For 62 years, Charlie shared a loving and devoted marriage with his beloved wife, Diane J. Piantieri. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and treasured memories.

 

In addition to his wife, Charlie is survived by his children, Charles J. Piantieri, Diane M. (Douglas) Schumacher, and Michael C. (Kimberly) Piantieri. He was a proud and loving Pop-Pop to his cherished grandchildren, Jenna L. Piantieri, Darin L. (Sarah) Schumacher, and Nicholas J. Piantieri, each of whom brought him immeasurable joy and pride.

 

Above all, Charlie cherished the time he spent with his grandchildren. He shared a special tradition with Jenna through their beloved “Pop-Pop Fridays,” time set aside just for the two of them. He loved cheering her on at field hockey games and took great pride in all of her academic and athletic accomplishments. He enjoyed discussing history with Darin, was proud of Darin’s service to the United States Air Force and treasured their conversations about American history. Together, they enjoyed visiting historical sites and exploring the stories and events that helped shape our nation. Charlie also shared a special bond with Nicholas through their mutual appreciation of cars. They spent countless hours talking about classic automobiles, Corvettes, and all things automotive, while also enjoying time together tinkering in the garage and working on projects side by side. Whether he was enjoying a Pop-Pop Friday with Jenna, exploring a historic landmark with Darin, or turning a wrench with Nicholas, Charlie treasured every moment spent with his grandchildren.

 

Charlie found happiness in the everyday moments that made life meaningful. He enjoyed tending to his garden and caring for his yard, spending countless hours in his garage tinkering and working with his hands, and taking walks through his neighborhood where he rarely missed an opportunity to stop and chat with neighbors and admire their dogs. He and Diane shared a love of travel and were fortunate to explore destinations around the world together. No matter where they went, Charlie always seemed to know someone. Whether on a cruise, in a restaurant, at the airport, or in a distant city, he had a remarkable way of running into friends, acquaintances, or someone with a familiar connection. His outgoing nature and gift for conversation allowed him to make friends wherever he went, often leaving his family wondering how he seemed to know someone everywhere they traveled.

 

A lifelong automobile enthusiast, Charlie loved cool cars and appreciated everything from classic models to high-performance sports cars. He especially cherished his 1995 Corvette, taking great pride in owning and driving it. Few things brought him more enjoyment than talking about cars, admiring a beautiful vehicle, or getting behind the wheel and heading out for a leisurely drive on the open road. A true Philadelphia sports fan, Charlie never missed the opportunity to cheer for the Philadelphia Eagles and Philadelphia Phillies. Win or lose, he remained a loyal and devoted supporter and sharing the excitement of a game with family and friends was one of his favorite pastimes.

 

Above all else, Charlie treasured time spent with family and friends. He will be remembered for his warm smile, kind heart, easygoing nature, and unwavering love for those fortunate enough to know him.

 

Charlie was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, John J. Piantieri, and brother-in-law, Warren Dunyan. He is survived by his sister, Marie Barbarotto; his sisters-in-law, Elaine Hoehle, Joanne Dunyan, and Louann Piantieri; and many loving cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

 

Charlie leaves behind a legacy of love, devotion, and cherished memories that will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

 

Relatives and friends are invited to Charlie’s visitation on Monday, July 13, from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at Christ’s Lutheran Church, 700 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Oreland, PA 19075. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. Interment at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery will take place immediately afterward.

 

The family respectfully requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in Charlie’s name to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741, or to Christ’s Lutheran Church, 700 East Pennsylvania Avenue, Oreland, PA 19075.

 

“A life well lived, a man well loved, and a memory that will never fade.”