Kenneth Maniscalco, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on August 30, 2026, surrounded by his family after a courageous battle with illness. Born on November 29, 1957, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Kenneth was the cherished son of Blaise and Evelyn Maniscalco, who predeceased him, along with Elizabeth Piazza, the mother of his children.

Kenneth led a life rich with experiences and connections. From an early age, he was nurtured in a faith-based environment, attending Catholic school through junior high and continuing his education at a Jesuit high school. His extraordinary gifts were recognized during his adolescence when he participated in the Governor's Program for Gifted Children, an opportunity that further ignited his passion for learning and exploration.

After college, Kenneth pursued his dream of flying fighter jets by enrolling in the Navy's Aviation Officer Candidate School. Although a medical condition kept him from flying, his determination and spirit remained unyielded. He transitioned his focus to a successful career with SWEPCO, where he worked for many years, becoming an integral part of the company and earning the respect of colleagues and friends.

Kenneth was a man of many talents and interests. Known for his competitive spirit, he was a sharp shooter in his middle years and took great joy in building computers for fun. His weekends were often filled with the peaceful pursuit of fishing on the lake with his father, creating cherished memories that lasted a lifetime. A creative soul, he was also an amateur event photographer, capturing moments that spoke to the beauty and complexity of life.

A long-time member of an international gaming group, Kenneth found joy and companionship in the shared adventures and laughter that such gatherings provided. His friends often described him as larger than life, with a penchant for pulling pranks and a jovial nature that could light up any room. Fiercely loyal, Kenneth stood by those he loved, offering his unwavering support and care.

Kenneth is survived by his devoted wife, Julia, who shared his life with love and partnership. He leaves behind his four beloved children: Kenneth Jr., Mary, Theresa, and Joseph, as well as his cherished grandchildren: Avery, Penelope, Jack, and Diana. His siblings, Cheryl and Steven, will forever hold dear the memories of their brother's warmth and humor.

We will have a service locally on Oct 12, 2026 at 11 am and it will be held St Joseph Husband of Mary RC church with reception to follow. He will be interred in Shreveport LA with his parents, and the date will be announced at a later time.

In honor of Kenneth's life and legacy and in lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to City of Hope, St Jude, or the charity of your choice in his memory.

City of Hope: https://www.cityofhope.org/giving | St. Jude: https://www.stjude.org/donate/donate-to-st-jude.html?sc_icid=header-btn-donate-now

Kenneth Maniscalco will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.