Obituary of John E. Pinnelli

John E. Pinnelli, a retired businessman, died peacefully in his home in Virginia Beach, VA on July 14, 2022. Born and raised in Fairmont, John was a 1959 graduate of East Fairmont High School and then Fairmont State University with a B.A. degree. He was a recipient of the prestigious Golden Horseshoe Award as an eight grader at East Park Elementary School. Award winners are inducted as “Knights” into the Golden Horseshoe Society. Following college, John served in the US Army Reserves. A former co-owner of three NTW franchises and later a real estate investor, John resided in the King’s Grant Landing community of Virginia Beach. There he had served as president and board member of his citizens’ association. John is predeceased by his parents, Anthony and Mary Pignanelli. Survivors include his sister Linda Heinecke and husband Richard of Bethesda, MD, and his niece Grace Heinecke and husband Matthew Wells who reside in London, UK. In addition, he leaves cousins in Fairmont, Michigan, Virginia, Florida, and Illinois. Extremely loyal to his family and friends, John was always meticulously organized. He was an avid fan of the Silver Screen, jazz music, collegiate and professional sports. A daily walker and fitness enthusiast, he also enjoyed biking, cooking, gardening, cars, investing and learning about his Italian heritage. John will be missed by all who knew him. Family and friends may pay their respects on Saturday, July 30 from 11am at Ford Funeral Home, 201 Columbia Street, Fairmont, WV 26554, followed by a brief service of remembrance at 12:30pm by Father Jojan Joseph. Burial will be at Mt Carmel Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Alzheimers Association.