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Bernard Izzo Obituary
Bernard P. Izzo, age 92, of Lombard. Husband of Jean Izzo, nee Platt; proud father of Tom, Jim (Joan), Cathy (Joseph), John (Rosemary), Pat (Judy) Izzo; devoted grandfather of Jesse, Katie, Anthony, Laura, Beth, Chris, Cindy, Steven (Ashley), Anna (Tim) Glinski, David and the late Patty; great-grandfather of Benjamin; uncle of many nieces and nephews. Professional soloist at the Lyric Opera of Chicago for 22 years. Professor of Music and Artist-in-Residence at North Central College in Naperville for 25 years. Long-time professional vocalist around the Midwest and National Anthem singer for Chicago Blackhawks for 14 years. Visitation Sunday, August 7th, 3-8 PM at at Knollcrest Funeral Home, 1500 S. Meyers Rd. (3 blks. S. of Roosevelt Rd.) Lombard. Funeral August 8th, 9:00 AM from the funeral home to Christ the King Catholic Church, 1501 S Main St, Lombard. Funeral Mass 10:00 AM. Interment Queen of Heaven Cemetery. Funeral Info: www.knollcrest.net or 630-932-1500.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bernard Izzo
Mimi Rodgers
April 8, 2024
I have such fun memories of Bernard is also singing on Christmas Eve at Kenilworth Union Church. Twas the birthday of a king with him singing was my favorite Christmas tune of all. I Looked forward to it every year. May he rest in peace after giving so much of us so much joy.
Philip Leekley
March 9, 2022
Kenilworth union choir was one of 3 significant groups I was part of during my high school years of 67 to 71. I was also gratified that he sang at my father's memorial service.
Sylvia phelps Helms
December 20, 2020
A wonderful memory to have sung in choir with him! 1951 Sears grad...Sylvia Phelps Helms.
Tom Getchell-Lacey
December 18, 2020
I grew up attending the Kenilworth Union Church, and hearing Bernie Izzo sing during worship services was always one of the highlights, helping me get through many a service as a young child. I sang in the choir when I was in my teens, and learned so much about music and singing under Bernie's direction. He was patient and kind. I suspect that it comforted him to know that, no matter how bad we sometimes sounded in rehearsal, come Sunday, the "ringers" would be there to rescue us. It was a pleasure and an honor to know him. My condolences go out to the family.
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joseph bunzol
August 30, 2020
Discussing on Facebook about who did the anthem before Wayne Messner for the Hawks. I was fortunate to hear Bernie and Al Melgard every game. Much more reverent and sincere but just as powerful as today
Rick Rodgers
December 19, 2019
I just googled Bernard Izzo and came across this obituary. I grew up in the Kenilworth Union Church and listened to and sang with Bernie from the early 1950s until 1964 when I graduated from high school. His singing was effortless... a beautiful baritone voice and when I think of his signature songs, I remember best The Birthday of a King which he sang every year at Christmas. I am now in my 70s and still sing in multiple groups. When thinking of what I will sing in church the Sunday after Christmas, I thought of this song and this extraordinary nice man and great singer.
Priscilla and Jerry Garcia
April 27, 2017
Dr Izzo was my dentist. I am so sad to see him passed. I will forever remember his great smile and service he provided to me and my family. He will truly be missed
Freddi Greenberg
September 23, 2016
Dear Izzo Family
Bernard Izzo's beautiful singing was a part of my childhood
of Temple Beth El. His lovely voice made it a pleaure to attend services. And I still remeber his kindess and warmth . He was very approachable and it was a childhood joy to talk to someone who also sang in the opera.
Condolences on your loss.
Freddi Greenberg
Liz and Steve Murrill
September 23, 2016
I have fond memories of singing in the choir and listening to Bernie sing his solos at the Kenilworth Union Church back in the late 70's and 80's when my husband and I first joined the church. I still remember getting goose bumps when Bernie would sing the "Holy City" or "O Holy Night!" I was the youngster just starting a family and Bernie was so down-to-earth; friendly; genuine-a mentor to all. How lucky we all were to be inspired by his talents, as well as his genuine personality. He truly was another wonderful human being from the World's Greatest Generation. Liz and Steve Murrill
Dolores Roessler-Gordon
September 8, 2016
We had the blessing of meeting Bernard Izzo in the 1960's as newcomers to Kenilworth Union Church. Enriched by the messages of Dr. William Hodgson, the music ministry led by Bernard Izzo touched my heart forever. Not only was he a gifted musician, he was a warm and welcoming presence ... mid the intimidation of affluence around us, it was Bernie who extended that warm welcome ... 'that, 'be who you are' feeling and encompassing love each week. Time moves on, lives change yet some people are never gone from our memories ... Divorced, raising two sons, moving from the north shore to the northwest suburbs.On Thanksgiving Day 1991 I lost my mom who had lived with me for 10 years. Though years had passed, I remembered Bernie .. and had the 'nerve' to call and ask if he would sing at my mother's memorial service in the tiny chapel at Rosehill Cemetery in Chicago. He agreed without hesitation...and arrived that morning in spite of a winter snowstorm. His beautiful renditions touched hearts deeply ... and the very gift of his presence that winter morning will never be forgotten. I dropped a note in later years after relocating to Phoenix and he responded in his usual heartfelt and encouraging way...I am blessed to have his recording made in the sanctuary at KUC with Betty at the organ and relate my "Bernie Stories" to my new husband and am touched every time by Bernie's God given gifts.
The Lord blessed Bernie with long life ... to share his considerable gifts with many ... and now I imagine the Heavenly Choir, richer and more glorious with it's newest member ... our dear friend, Bernard Izzo ... Rest in Peace dear man ... and Thank You!
August 30, 2016
Dear Family of Bernard Izzo,
Please accept our deepest condolences on your loss of Bernard.
My husband, Ed, and I played in the pit orchestra at the Summer Place for "Brigadoon" and "Most Happy Fella" and "The Boyfriend" and always enjoyed playing for Professor Izzo. We also enjoyed getting to know Tom as we played in the orchestra together.
May your cherished memories comfort you in your loss of this great musician and wonderful person.
Sincerely,
Lynne Green
Naperville, IL
Jack Phend
August 25, 2016
Jean, Tom & Family,
Bernie was a gentleman, an artist and a scholar. Julie and I send thoughts and prayers to you.
Jack Phend,
Jan Betts
August 12, 2016
Dear Jean and Family,
I feel so honored to be able to call Bernie a friend. He was such a great guy. I will never forget the night you spent with us in Oconto Falls and how much fun it was to be with you two and Doc and Betty Seifert. It will always be a fond memory. I wish I could have seen you at least one more time. Bernie is a source of many happy memories when I was a kid and I really appreciate that. I have lost touch with Betty, but I do know that she is living in Eau Claire with her daughter. I hope that you were able to contact her. My prayers are with you all.
Much love,
Jan Betts
Stephen Sturk
August 10, 2016
My condolences to Tom Izzo and the entire family. Bernie was my voice teacher at North Central College many moons ago, and I benefited from his wisdom throughout a long career of my own. He was a Mensch, and I'm delighted that he enjoyed such a long run! The photo is of myself (Dr. Stephen Sturk), Dr. Ann McKinley, and Mr. Bernard Izzo at the opening of Wentz Concert Hall on the North Central College campus in Naperville, October 2008.
August 10, 2016
Bernie brought so much joy into our lives while he was a member of the Kenilworth Union Church family. He was so special and every Sunday while at church we always remember him. Barbara and Bob Balsley
August 10, 2016
Jean and Family,
I have always treasured the five years we shared on the faculty at North Central. As a new young prof, I so appreciated Bernie's warm and friendly welcome; I was even lucky and honored enough to accompany him a few times. Like so many of us, I will never forget the twinkle in his eye--this funny, kind, and true gentleman.
Sorry I am not in town to attend services but will be forever grateful to have known Bernie.
Jack Shindler
Jeannine and Gene Miller
August 9, 2016
Dear Jean, we were so sorry to hear of Bernie's passing. Shirley left a message for us. We were in Wisconsin for a funeral and came home yesterday, Monday. Both of you have been so friendly and loved your smiles. It was just a few weeks ago that Bernie and Gene were talking about their time in the service.
Hopefully, we'll see you again at the mall.
Karen (Henry) Weitendorf
August 9, 2016
I am sorry to hear of Bernie's passing and I'm coming late to the scene but wanted to share my enormous respects to a wonderful friend and mentor. He has remained a loving friend years after graduation and remained constantly in my thoughts & heart. I am grieved at his passing but am honored to have known such a kind, loving man. He always spoke so lovingly about Jean, his children, grandchildren, nieces & nephews that I felt I knew them all too! I waited anxiously for my first (handwritten) Christmas card for the Season - which he sent steadfastly for 31 years & told my family all his good news he passed on in his letter. I called him earlier this year when I needed a familiar connection after my Mom's passing & he gave me great comfort- as he always did! My heart, prayers & love go to his Family. He was a wonderful man!
The Tarleys
August 8, 2016
Aunt Jean, Tom, Jim & Joan, John & Rosemary, Pat & Judy, Cathy & Joe and all the Grandchildren. At this sad time we should take a moment to reflect upon how fortunate we were to have had Uncle Ben in our lives for such a long period of time. God blessed us all with Uncle Ben's very presence, love, smile, humor and compassion. We will miss his letters keeping us informed of news from Chicago. We will miss his cheery voice on the telephone. We will always have our memories of the great times we enjoyed, the family visits and picnics. I'll always treasure the memories of my visits to Chicago, the warm welcomes and the great moments shared. I'll also treasure the fact that the first family members to welcome me home on my return from VietNam were all of you. Uncle Ben will always be in my thoughts and prayers as will all of you. My children also have fond memories of Uncle Ben, and are saddened by his loss and will always think of him.
Today, earth is worse off than it was before Friday, but Heaven is much richer now. How beautiful must the singing be at Heaven's Masses now that they are being led by Uncle Ben and my Mom.
My Love, thoughts and prayers will be with you all forever.
Your nephew and cousin,
Tom, wife, Debbie, and daughters Heather, Michelle, Jessica, Victoria and their families.
July 2014
Rich Krasowski Jr
August 8, 2016
North Central College 1982
Rich Krasowski Jr.
August 8, 2016
It seems all too often this last year I find myself posting sad news of the passing of a friend, or in this case, a mentor. I saw on Facebook that my college professor, adviser, mentor and friend, Bernard Izzo passed away on August 5th at 92 years old. Mr. Izzo was the first person I met at North Central College when I took a tour while looking for colleges. His kindness and fun character were apparent right from the first handshake. Eventually, I auditioned for him and was offered a vocal scholarship. It was solely because of him that I attended North Central. For four years, I spent almost 5 days a week, 4 to 6 hours a day, learning how sing, keep my body healthy and my mind in shape...... all under the guidance of this kind man. At times, the vocal lessons were so difficult that I became dizzy...gasping for air because I had not taken a breath in the right spot in a piece of music.....he would just gently laugh when I asked why.....and come up with some hilarious comment (that you could tell he had said time and time again with students)...and would make the accompanist laugh. He would keep on me to protect my voice....and stay healthy. He was my adviser...just not in music...but in everything college...and, at the time, life in general. At his retirement in 1986 he held the record for number of solos performed at the Chicago Lyric Opera......330! He was the guy who sang The National Anthem at all of the Blackhawk games in the 60's and 70's. Every year, his wife Jean would bake cookies for the whole music department celebrating the date when he returned to her from WWII. My memories go on and on. Every year, his would be the first Christmas card to arrive....for 32 years after I graduated from college....and there was always a hand written note. Kathy and I couldn't wait to get his card every year...and couldn't wait to send him one of our Christmas newsletters.
College became difficult for me after my father died....and I know that Mr. Izzo was there to help me cope with the loss...... but I became more and more distant. The joy of music and singing was drained from me during that time....and it never, ever returned the same way. I don't think that I ever got to sit with him and discuss my future in music. Life seemed to be going downhill at such a fast pace....that I didn't take time to think about it. I just tried to get through it. I sang mostly opera for those years...but never had a deep love for the music....and never considered taking it up as a career. During my studies overseas, and during my student teaching, I wasn't on campus that much....and life just moved on. The last year of college, graduation, getting a job and moving away seem like a blur even now. I don't remember saying goodbye...but I'm sure that I did.
For decades, Kathy and I would say, "Next time we go to Chicago, we have to see Mr. & Mrs. Izzo."...and for decades we repeated ourselves. It took about three decades for us to finally make it happen. On my birthday in 2014 we had dinner and a great time catching up with Mr. & Mrs. Izzo. We couldn't believe how much they hadn't changed, especially when it seemed that our lives had changed so much in thirty years. Being with them was like sitting by a warm fire....remembering a lost time...or a familiar scent in your home. We talked and talked for hours and hours....and it was good...the way it should be. (The pictures below are at North Central and then all of us in 2014). This man....is certainly more a part of who I am than almost anyone in my life. This man....is someone that I always emulated. This man.....was my teacher, mentor, father-figure.....and friend. Rest in a peace that is well deserved and know that you were so loved and appreciated.
Russ Rees
August 8, 2016
Jim,
sorry for your loss. what a great life he lived. distance prevents attendance at the services but my thoughts are with you
Ginny Tarley
August 7, 2016
Aunt Jean, Tom, Jim and Joan, Cathy and Joe, John and Rosemary, Pat and Judy, and families,
This is a sad time in your lives and ours as well. We must, however, thank the good Lord for all of the wonderful years Uncle Bernard was with all of us.
Our memories of family times together, yearly family picnics in Rochester, and all of the photos and movies we have to cherish. So much more will be remembered as we reflect on all of our family memories.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all and my prayers are with Uncle Bernard as well.
Love and prayers,
Your god daughter and cousin,
Ginny
Dennis & Liane Stafira
August 6, 2016
A very sad day for us. Will be thinking of you.
Dan Stupka
August 5, 2016
Hey Coach and family, I'm sorry that your Dad is gone. I know that he must've been a great man to have such a great son. God bless y'all!
Eric Shoesmith
August 5, 2016
Family and friends, we are sorry for your loss, and are honored to comfort and care for you during this difficult time. We invite you to use this web page and guest book as way to honor Bernard whether you are near or far.
When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. ~Author Unknown
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