RIZZO, Antonio “Tony” - It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Antonio “Tony” Rizzo peacefully with his family by his side on Sunday August 14, 2022 at the age of 92. Loving husband of 66 years to Maria. Proud father of Tina (Christos) Rigas, Guy Rizzo (Sue) and Angelo Rizzo. Super proud Nono of Chris (Vicky) Rigas, Clarissa (Peter) Tzellos, Marissa (Steve) Butyniec, Anthony, Andrew and Annissa Rizzo. Great Grandfather to 9. Tony is survived by his sister Maria (the late Sam) Caicco, Joe (Assunta ) Rizzo, Albert (Nuccia) Rizzo, Victor (the late Olga) Rizzo, Angela (the late Tony) Pellegrino, Ottavio Rizzo (Rita) and many nieces and nephews in Canada and around the world. He was predeceased by his parents Gaetano and Fortunata Rizzo, and his sister Fiorina (the late Fiore) Cappelli. Antonio was born in Serra d’ Aiello Calabria, Italy March 11th, 1930. He lost his father suddenly at the age of 17 forcing him to become the patriarch to his 7 siblings. Wanting a better life for his siblings, he emigrated to Canada in 1951 settling in Niagara Falls, where he met Maria. They started a family and at the same time brought his siblings one by one to Canada where they could start new lives. Tony was a self-taught Master Stone Mason and bricklayer and many of his projects can still be seen today across Ontario, including Brock University, Greater Niagara General Hospital and the many yellow brick Brewers Retail (Beer Stores) across this province. He was a well-read man with a constant thirst for knowledge. Tony was a self-proclaimed historian of everything, often holding Saturday and Sunday morning meetings with his friends at one of the local Tim Hortons. He could often be found in the garden growing his award-winning tomatoes or making soprasatta. Tony loved sharing his recipes and his wine. He was happiest when he was able to visit people giving them gifts from his garden or cantina. Tony will be profoundly missed by those who adored him and the coined phrase that came with a bit of advice “One days a time” Arrivederci! Antonio’s family would like to thank the men and women of the Greater Niagara General Hospital Rainbow Unit. They treated “nono” like he was one of their own. Their compassion and caring showed no bounds. The family would also like to thank Dr. David Dec and Dr. Masoud Goodarzi for the care they provided our father.
The family will receive friends at MORSE & SON FUNERAL HOME, 5917 Main Street, Niagara Falls, on Sunday August 21, 2022 from 1 - 6 pm. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady of the Scapular Church, 6557 Thorold Stone Road, Niagara Falls, on Monday August 22, 2022 at 11 am, with the Rite of Entombment to follow at Fairview Mausoleum. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider donating to Hospice Niagara in Antonio’s name. Memories, photos and condolences may be shared at www.morseandson.com