David J. Rizzo

Dear David,

Today is your day,

FOR GOOD:

I'VE HEARD IT SAID
THAT PEOPLE COME INTO OUR LIVES FOR A REASON
BRINGING SOMETHING WE MUST LEARN
AND WE ARE LED
TO THOSE WHO HELP US MOST TO GROW
IF WE LET THEM
AND WE HELP THEM IN RETURN

BUT I KNOW I'M WHO I AM TODAY
BECAUSE I KNEW YOU...

I will be attending a Jazz band practice tonight and be thinking of you.

Love you bud!

Always

As we approach the anniversay of David's death, the sadness in my heart has not eased. In some ways, it is more intense. He remains an inspiration in everything I do.

I really cannot believe that it wasn't until making an appointment at his practice last week that I learned of Dave's passing. He spent time in my ensembles at Newington High School where I taught music, and I spent a lot more in his chair having many deeply felt discussions about life and his music in between root canals (also deeply felt).

I read Ben's posting here and couldn't agree more. I feel privileged to have known David both as a student and as a man.

Dr. Rizzo was my Dentist, but more importantly a friend. He was a good man. We talked often about his love of music, but more importantly about his love for his family. He is sorely missed.

I worked for Dr. Rizzo 2, maybe 3 days when he needed brief temporary help several years ago. In those few days I knew he was a special person....Having worked for many many dentists over the last 40 years he stands out as one of the nicest I have ever met...after just a few days. My deepest sympathy to all who had the privledge of having this man in their lives.

Debbie, our deepest sympathy goes to you and the girls. Dave was the kindest,gentlest, caring dentist I have ever met. It was a privilege to work with him years back. He was always pleasant-- humming, joking, and delivering fine dentistry with a smile. He was truly loved by all of his patients, and made everyone who came in contact with him feel like an old friend. His generosity,thoughtfulness, and compassion will leave a lasting impression on those who knew him.
Our thoughts and...

Upon returning from vacation, we have just learned of David's passing. We are truly shocked and saddened. Heaven has gained a true angel, however our world will be a much sadder place. My husband and myself were dental patients, and David will always be remembered as a kind and gentle soul. Our deepest sympathy, loving thoughts, and prayers. The Rivkin Family, (Ronald & Lisa) Farmington, CT

I was so sorry to hear of Dave's passing. He was a wonderful dentist and human being. My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this difficult time.

Debbie, Laura & Jill, I went to junior high and high school with your husband and father and remember him fondly as a spirited, cheerful, wonderful man. He, Sue, Mike and I had many great times together growing up in Newington, particularly in choir. He had an infectious positive attitude! I visited Dave in the hospital for both his first kidney transplant and again for the second (where I got to meet you, Debbie). I could see that his incredible spirit was still at work through all...