Manuel Pihakis, a legend in the wrestling world and an icon of the Canonsburg area, died at his home Saturday at the age of 89. Pihakis, known everywhere by his “Buns” nickname, was a three-time PIAA wrestling champion for Canonsburg, graduating in 1952. He lost just one of his 100 career matches and competed in Olympic tryouts in 1952 and 1956. Pihakis later served 35 years as athletic director for Canon-McMillan and on the WPIAL wrestling committee as well as a PIAA official for a quarter century. He was an inductee of the Washington-Greene County chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports, the Pittsburgh Sports and the Pennsylvania Wrestling Coaches Association Halls of Fame and well as the Canon-McMillan Hall of Honor.
Outside the sports world, Pihakis served as a 20-year member of the Canon-McMillan School Board as well as former Mayor and councilman in the Borough of Canonsburg. He was also active in his church and community, serving on numerous boards and committees.
He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Dolly, and sons Michael and George. Visitation is scheduled for 2-8 pm Tuesday and Wednesday at All Saints Greek Orthodox Church in Canonsburg. Services will be held at 11 am Thursday at the church with burial at Forest Lawn Gardens in McMurray. (Photo courtesy, Frank Vulcano)