Local Marine Laid To Rest

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) - The local Marine who was recently killed while serving in Afghanistan is being laid to rest today.

Visitation was held Tuesday night for Staff Sgt. Justin Schmalstieg.

He was killed last week in a roadside bomb explosion.

Schmalstieg grew up in Stanton Heights and was the son of two Pittsburgh Police detectives.

He was a cross-country athlete at Peabody High School and graduated in 2000.

His funeral was held at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Pittsburgh's Shadyside neighborhood.

Just 13 months ago in the same church, he married his wife, Anne.

"Our great sorrow is because of our great love for this more than worthy man," Anne Schmalstieg said. "I will always love you Justin."

Schmalstieg was a bomb technician. He had already served two tours in Iraq.

Because both of his parents are police detectives, Schmalstieg was remembered by both the military and Pittsburgh police.

Bishop David Zubik also presided over the service.

"When it comes close to home and we know the person who died or know their family members, it touches deep in the heart even more so."

Stay with KDKA for the latest details.