Neal Griebling

Passed away on Thursday, August 12, 2021. Neal graduated from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee with a degree in history, and was employed at Allegheny Intermediate Unit, the Vintage Senior Center, and the former St. Francis Medical Center. Neal was a lifelong student of Zen Buddhism who became certified as a Zen chaplain to serve the dying and their families, established a nonprofit organization to train hospice volunteers, and was a consultant to local hospices. Neal was also one of the founding members of Still Point, a Soto Zen community established in 1990 in the Lawrenceville neighborhood, where they still host regular Zen meditation and Zen events and classes. Later on, he established Future Design Studio, a life and career coach consultancy that he practiced for more than ten years. Neal studied Zen with noted teachers, Dainin Katagiri, Shohaku Okumura, Janet Jiryu Abels and most recently with abbot Kotoku Crivello, of the Zen Center of Pittsburgh, Deep Spring Temple. Those wishing to make a charitable donation in his memory may send their contributions to: The Zen Center of Pittsburgh, Deep Spring Temple (deepspringzen.org) or Animal Advocates (animaladvocates.net). A memorial service is planned for later this year or early next year. You may indicate your interest in attending Neal's memorial service by sending an email grieblingmemorial@gmail.com. Arrangements entrusted to WILLIAM SLATER II FUNERAL SERVICE, Scott Twp. (412-563-2800). www.slaterfuneral.com