Donald Charles "Don" Fazzio

1940 - 2020

Donald 'Don' Charles Fazzio
Sept. 22, 1940 - Jan. 14, 2020
Donald "Don" Charles Fazzio passed away in Vancouver, Wash., Jan. 14, 2020, at the age of 79.
Don was born in Portland Sept. 22, 1940. He was the first of two children born to Charles and Elenor Fazzio. Growing up, Don was driven, motivated and sometimes stubborn. Those were the qualities that helped him succeed later in life. He attended the University of Portland and graduated in 1962 with a degree in psychology. When running his own business, he jokingly said that his degree helped him in customer service. Don and his father started Fazzio Fruit and Produce, Inc. In 1960, It grew from a small wholesale business in a farmers market to a 30,000 square foot facility that sold frozen fruits, vegetables and prepared foods. After many years of success, Don sold his business and retired in 2005. Don's first marriage was to Carol Innocenti. They had two children; Michelle (Fazzio) Jensen and Troy Fazzio. Then in 1985, he married Sally Zanobelli. They had two children; Kristie (Fazzio) Hedlund and Vito Fazzio. Don was a caring father and family man. In his free time he enjoyed traveling, especially to the beach. He loved sports, movies and, like a true Italian, food. He was the "Don" of his family, often providing advice and comfort to many. He was loved and cherished by all.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Charlene (Fazzio) Brentano. He is survived by his wife, Sally Fazzio of Vancouver, Wash.; children, Michelle Jensen (Karl), Troy Fazzio (Joy), Kristie Hedlund (Travis) and Vito Fazzio; his granddaughters, Elizabeth Jensen, Lauren Jensen and London Hedlund; and many other extended family members and friends.
A recitation of the rosary will be held at 8:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2020, followed by a funeral Mass at 9am at the Proto-Cathedral of St. James the Greater in Vancouver, Wash. In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Don's memory to Shriners Hospital for Children in Portland.
Please sign the online guest book at www.oregonlive.com/obits