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- Thomas (Octavia) Peter Rizzo
Highland - Thomas (Octavia) Peter Rizzo 95, a lifelong resident of Highland passed away at his home on December 2, 2014 surrounded by his loving family.
Mr. Rizzo was a Superintendant for the Town of Lloyd Water & Sewer Departments. He initiated all the projects and the infrastructure that provides the town of its water which is still in place today , and because of his accomplishments and dedication they named a road after him called Thomas Rizzo Blvd. in Highland.
He was a true American icon- a perfect family man.
Mr. Rizzo was a decorated WWII Army Veteran. He was honorably discharged and served our Country between the years of 1942-1945. He was an Army Champion Boxer. He was awarded from the Secretary of the Army The Army Commendation Medal for saving a tug boat caught in the worst storm in the pacific in 40 years. Yes he was in the Army on a tug boat as a radio man- he said the waves were 30 ft. over the bow for 3 days. He received this Commendation Medal for his courageous performance of duty on December 9, 1943, while assigned as radio operator on the tug LT-20. Though you had been suffering from seasickness for two days, you remained at your post for six hours during the rescue operation, notwithstanding the fact you required the assistance of two men to maintain your position. Your conduct reflects great credit upon yourself, the 35th Transportation Corps Composite Group, and the Army of the United States.
Mr. Rizzo was a Commander for the American Legion Post 193 for 13 years. He was also a member of the VFW post 6534, was a life member of the Highland Hose Company#1 in Highland, and was a member of the Italian Center in Poughkeepsie.
Mr. Rizzo was an avid bowler and hunter. He loved camping and his cookies. He was also an avid card player and skibo player.
He was also a member of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Esopus and St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church in Highland.
Mr. Rizzo was born in Highland NY. He was the son of Guiseppe and Maria Belvedere Rizzo.
On December 1, 1946 at St. Augustine Roman Catholic Church in Highland he married Eleanor Casabura. Mrs. Rizzo survives at home in Highland. Additional survivors include his children; Tommy Rizzo, Donna Rizzo, and Riva Vanas-Nelson. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Mr. Rizzo was predeceased by his brothers; Gus, Leo , Peppy, his sisters; Mary Grasso, Josephine LaSusa, Anne DallVechia, Rosalie Bragg, his daughter-in-law, Candy Rizzo and his grandson; Shane Iorlano.
Calling hours are Friday December 5th from 2-4 and 7-9pm at the Michael Torsone Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. 38 Main St. Highland, NY 12528.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday December 6th 10:00am at Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Esopus.
Burial will follow in Highland Cemetery with military honors.
- See more at: http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/poughkeepsiejournal/obituary.aspx?n=thomas-rizzo&pid=173359252&fhid=27377#sthash.d3GlSCq3.VtP6yPN4.dpuf
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