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John Rizzo Obituary
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our own Santa bringing some treats and cheer to the grunts in the rice paddies of Nam
Allen "Doc" Hoe
January 5, 2021
Doc Rizzo was a soldier's soldier who enjoyed adding a little bit of sanity to our daily lives filled with the reality and horror of combat in Vietnam. The attached photo at Christmas time in 1967 says it all. God bless Doc and his family.
Allen Hoe
January 6, 2020
We who had the privilege to serve with Doc Rizzo in uniform upon our Nation's call to duty have not and will not ever forget his wonderful spirit of service and humanity. special blessings to Peggy and his children, I am sure that you brought so much joy to him in his post-Vietnam life which enabled him to continue his life of service to humanity
Doc Hoe
DEBBIE LONGWELL
February 9, 2010
I STARTED WITH DR. RIZZO IN 1974 I REMEMBER GOING IN THE MORNING FOR MY APPT. AND AFTER WAITING 2 OR 3 HOURS LEAVING AND COMING BACK THE NEXT DAY BECAUSE WHEN THE HOSTITAL CALLED TO SAY THERE WAS A BABY READY TO BE BORN HE HAD TO LEAVE AND DELIVER THE BABY SOMETIMES THERE WOULD BE MORE THAN ONE BABY READY TO BE BORN SO OF COURSE ALL OF US WOMEN GOT TO KNOW EACH OTHER WELL WE TALKED ABOUT EVERYTHING IT WAS KIND OF FUN BUT IT WAS WORTH IT ALL I LOVED DR. RIZZO I HAD MY SON FEB. 21 1975 I KNEW I WAS IN GOOD HANDS BECAUSE HE WENT TO SCHOOL WITH MY MOTHER DORIS JEANS (BEAVAN)WALLS CLASS OF 1956 ARE PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY
Stephena Martin-Summers
January 23, 2010
Rest in peace "Doc" John Rizzo. I met you first as a patient, and I adored you. But I couldn't have been more pleasantly surprised when I "met" you at my fathers "Gun Shanty". He was making you a new stock for your gun (which was used to defend you and your dog from a pitbull attack while hunting). My father worked on guns for many people in the area and I would carry cups of coffee to his building in the back yard "The Gun Shanty". But it was a real surprise when I opened the door to hand you and Dad coffee. No introduction needed!
~Stephena Martin-Summers
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Al, Debbie & Rascal Wolfe
January 22, 2010
Firstly, we are so sorry for the family in their loss. Our deepest heartfelt sympathy goes to the family.
Secondly, the love for "Doc" that the common people have shown in their entries in this guestbook are absolutely overwhelming. You get a sense of joy and tears all at the same time. Amazing entries for an amazing gentleman. That was "Doc" John Rizzo. Our story is that on the night of the game of "BIG" rivalries between Farmington Farmers and Mannington Gators, our son Rascal decided to be born. "Doc" being a sports fan that he was, thought of slowing down the process. I can remember seeing the fear in the Nurse's face as she said "I don't think Doc is going to make it here in time." Well, Doc was right, Rascal was born at midnight. Every family member said weeks in advance "Don't make us miss that football game." Doc told them about it.
Stanard L. Swihart, M.D.
January 19, 2010
The words and sentiments in Dr. John A. Rizzo’s recent obituary were so accurate and eloquent. I would only add to that wonderful tribute by bringing the perspective of one who worked in the same area of the hospital along side him for so many years.
When I came into practice in Fairmont in 1976 with Dr. Ann Clark, John was chairman of the OBGYN Department of FGH.
At that time the rules of the game were quite different. Fathers were not allowed in the delivery room. Ann and I felt quite strongly about this issue and John was in complete agreement and against the taboo that seems so silly now. That support for an important issue in improving patient care and the experience in the hospital continued throughout his career. The patient and her wellbeing always came first.
John was also supportive of other doctors who were trying to provide their best in quality care.
There were times in my career when I was between partners and by myself. John was always there for me and was there for anyone who asked for help. As was alluded to in his obituary, it was never about money with John. John was a total class act professionally and personally.
John worked hard – too hard. He was one of the last of the old guard doctors at FGH who lived, ate and slept at the hospital.
It was not uncommon for John to have multiple deliveries during the night, surgery in the morning, and then go to an office full of patients. He dedicated so much of himself to his profession and still somehow had the energy to raise an outstanding family and enjoy his passion for sports.
John was always coaching, whether on the field on at the hospital.
After John’s retirement, a newly renovated OB unit was dedicated in his name in 1997. Typically, he was very humble. His words that day were very generous to everyone. It was also apparent that day as always that he did not seek recognition for
his accomplishments.
After John retired, the OB nurses organized a river cruise for an evening aboard a charter boat out of Morgantown. It was a glorious evening of fun and joy. The OB nurses even provided special entertainment, singing and dancing as the “Rizzoettes.” The outpouring of love and affection that night is still felt by all of us who were there.
Dr. John Rizzo honored the trust given to him by thousands of families. To be part of another family’s life when a new member arrives is a special gift indeed. Words are so fleeting but memories remain. Mothers remember even the smallest details of their pregnancies and deliveries. Surely those memories and the stories they have told their children will endure.
On behalf of so many, I extend heartfelt sympathy to his wonderful family, especially his wife Peggy, who gave him such loving and dedicated care. For all of us who worked along side Dr. John A. Rizzo, it was
indeed a privilege and honor.
Pat "Patsy" Moore
January 17, 2010
I am sure that I am speaking for the many nurses at FGH who had the privilege of working with Dr. John Rizzo. He treated all patients equally and kindly, but to the nurse's he was a dear friend. He truly cared about each and every one of us and our families. He knew our spouse's names, our children's names and knew when we had a problem. He was always there for support, reassurance and comfort.
We spent many hours and years with him while he cared for the women of Marion county, never complaining and always smiling. How fortunate we were to have him in our lives.
He shared recipes, brought us fried peppers and potatoes and sometimes concoctions he said had "chicken" in it, but I think we knew it was squirrel or possum.
I miss his corny jokes, backrubs and most of all his comforting thoughts.
He enjoyed life to the fullest and had the deepest love for his family.
What a blessing it is that this "gentle giant" is at peace.
He will be deeply missed and always loved. Our loss is heaven's gain!
Allen "Doc" Hoe
January 16, 2010
Aloha and my deepest condolences to Peggy and family,
I had the honor to serve as one of Doc Rizzo's young Combat Medics in Vietnam in 1967 -1968. Doc was the Battalion Surgeon assigned to the 2nd Battalion 1st Infantry Regiment, of the 196th Light Infantry Brigade, 23rd Infantry Division (AMERICAL), 2/1, 196th Inf. Doc was responsible for the health and welfare of nearly 500 of our country's bravest young warriors engaged each day in a life and death struggle with the enemy, yet he was always up beat, focusing on the positives and motivating everyone around him with his wit and humor.
In the middle of the battle field he would always make or find the space and time for soldier's to enjoy a bit of sports, i.e., vollyball, stick ball, and touch football.
As the Battalion Surgeon, he was in charge of nearly 30+ of us, "my fighting medics" as he loved to call us, who lived and died on the ground along side the "grunts" in the infantry rifle companies of 2/1 Inf.
Those were very extra ordinary times and Doc Rizzo was an extra ordinary warrior.
2/1 being an Infantry Battalion, and at my first meeting with Doc Rizzo, we shared a bit about each others backgrounds, my being from Hawaii, he was interested in Waikiki and my "surfing" experiences and I about his medical speciality, "oh, I'm a OB/GYN," "don't ask me, it is something which the Army obviously deemed essential in an Infantry Battalion." We would always share a good laugh over that one.
Thus, I was not surprised to learn of his incredible service to his community in bringing 7,000 plus babies into the world.
I am sure, his family and those from within his closest community and circle of friends will miss him dearly.
It was truly an honor to have served with him and to call him not only Doc but also, friend.
"mekealoha pumehana keakua" may God bless you with loving memories
Doc Allen K. Hoe,
Recon 2/1, 196th. Infantry,
1967 -68
Ron & Leslie Steis
January 15, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rizzo family.
We are so sorry for your loss and send our deepest
sympathies.
Johnny Koebert
January 15, 2010
Peggy,
My thoughts are with you always. I will remember John as a wonderful guy with a great personality and sense of humor.
Love,
Johnny
Ray Jr. & Mary Jo Rutherford
January 15, 2010
Peggy and the Rizzo Family,
Extending to you our deepest sympathy at the loss of our dearly beloved Dr. Rizzo, a very kind, loving, gentle man and a wonderful OB/GYN Doctor. He will
be sadly missed by all those who knew and loved him. Dr. Rizzo was part of our lives and left a footprint in our hearts. We will be forever grateful to him who helped us become parents of our two beautiful sons. A shining angel has received his just reward in Heaven. May he rest in peace.
Lori Druen
January 15, 2010
Peggy,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Loretta
KIMBERLY FETTY
January 15, 2010
DR RIZZO WAS A WONDERFUL MAN AND MADE PREGNANCY AND DELIVERY A MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE. HE ALWAYS HAD A SMILE AND A BACKRUB FOR ME. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO ALL THOSE WHOSE LIVES HE TOUCHED. GOD TRULY CALLED AN ANGEL HOME.
Linda Opas
January 15, 2010
Doctor Rizzo bought my 3 children into the world. Always during delivery him and my husband always shared hunting and fishing stories. They just don't come around like him any more. Even as the years pasted seeing him at are kids ball games he was always your friend. May he rest in peace.
Linda Hall
January 15, 2010
I want to extend my sympathy to the Rizzo family at this sad time. I worked for "Doc" 30 some years ago when he was in the Deveny Building downtown. What a wonderful boss and friend!!! I saw first hand what a wonderful doctor he was. His patients were #1, and he always had time to talk if they needed a friend. If anyone made it to the pearly gates, Dr. Rizzo did. We will miss you, but we know you are at peace and someday we will meet again. God Bless
January 14, 2010
I have to agree with the newspaper article on "Doc". he was a wonderful, caring person and touched many lives, as I had seen that first hand. I worked for Dr. Rizzo when he was at the Deveny Building in town. I believe he had only been here a year or two when I was hired. I saw how kind he was to his patients and those whom he worked with. He was a great boss and a very dedicated doctor. I know there are alot of babies here in Fairmont that he will always be remembered by. My love and sincere sympathy to the Rizzo family. Linda Hall
January 14, 2010
my sympathies go out to you
Lorraine Patton
Tina Creamer
January 14, 2010
My daughter, his niece, was delivered by Dr. John Rizzo. Great doctor and a wonderfully funny man. A great lose for everyone who knew him.
Gail Martin
January 14, 2010
My son and daughter were brought into this world at FGH by Dr. Rizzo, 30 and 28 years ago. He was a wonderful man and he will be sadly missed. My prayers go out to the family. May God bring peace to each one of you through this difficult time.
Berri Fluharty
January 14, 2010
My thoughts and prayers to the Rizzo family. Dr.Rizzo was the best. My son just turned 18 and i could not have had a better doctor to bring him into this world. He will be greatly missed.
barbara channell
January 14, 2010
To My thoughts and prays are with the family. Dr Rizzo was a wonderful person and doctor. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.
Joyce Costello Haney
January 13, 2010
My son and daughter were brought into this world at FGH by Dr. Rizzo, 33 and 30 years ago. He was a kind and gentle spirit that touched so many lives. My prayers are with the family he has left behind, but know you will meet again. God Bless.
Sheila Sleeth
January 13, 2010
To the Rizzo Family,
I worked with Dr. Rizzo in surgery at FGH for 3 1/2 years. As a new RN I always enjoyed working with him and we had lots of laughs together as well as all he taught me in my formative years.
He was my first gynecologist but I got married and moved away so I did not get the pleasure of him delivering my children. I have thought of him often over the years and wish I could have had one more laugh with him again. My sincere condolences to all.
BABE and LINDA STINGO
January 13, 2010
MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE RIZZO FAMILY. DR. RIZZO WAS A GREAT MAN.
Johnny Mozuke
January 13, 2010
Doc was a great friend to my family all my life. Everytime he saw me or talked to me he said, "remember when you were slayin' those trout when you were a little boy off that porch in Elkins?" He called me out of the blue a couple of years ago and we talked for a long time about old times. My family and I will miss him very much. He was 'family' to all of us.
Patty & John Alessio/Lucente
January 13, 2010
Dear Peggy,Mary and family, I believe we are all born into this world and have a divine purpose to fulfill,big or small. My cousin John did exactly that,and our family will miss him dearly. Our Lord must be taking his hand and saying "Well done my faithful servant,come into a room I have prepared for you."
sarah Stottlemire
January 13, 2010
The Rizzo Family is in my thoughts and prayers
Melanie Ross
January 13, 2010
Dear Peggy and family, I know there are no words that I can say that haven't already been said about Dr. Rizzo. My memories of him are many, my admiration for him immense. He was my doctor, but also my friend. He made his patients feel important and that is a sign of a great human being.
The world has lost a shining light but heaven has gained an angel.
January 13, 2010
My deepest sympathy to Doc Rizzo's family. What a wonderful man, he delivered my 4 children-singing and joking in the delivery room-this was a natural thing for him and he loved it! He sure will be missed.
May God confort you, in this time of saddness.
Kay (Cleveland) Martin (Fairmont, WV)
Roger Evans
January 13, 2010
Please accept my sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers. I went to WVU with John and was his fraternity brother. He hired me as an usher and this helped with expenses. None of us had any money and through these jobs we learned to work hard as well. John is a person who left us all in better shape than when we first met him. It was great seeing him last year.
Susan Shroyer
January 13, 2010
January 13, 2010
Dr. John touched the lives of my entire family. "Little Johnnie Rizzo" took piano lessons with my mother back in Idamay. He bowled at my father's establishment. He took care of me from the time I was a teenager, until the day our first daughter was born. He sat on the bottom of the bed and told jokes with my husband until it was time. He let my family watch my daughter being born from the doorway. He then brought our second precious gift into the world a year later. He spoke of his own family with such joy and love, and he was able to give so many of us a family to love too. He always had a big smile and a great big hug, no matter where he saw me. He will be deeply missed, but he will always be loved! Thank you Dr. Rizzo.
Susan Shroyer and family
Bernice Hibbs
January 13, 2010
I am so sorry to hear about John. My husband, Harry Hibbs and John used to go groundhog huntimg above Mannington. He was my doctor also, and I also went to school with his sister. I just loved him. I was so heartbroken when he retired. Again, I am so sorry . Always remember the good times and keep him in your heart. I know how you feel, I have lost Harry last Feb., so I know how you feel.
Tracey
January 13, 2010
What a sad time here on earth as the world lost a wonderful human being, but in heaven they will celebrate!! Doc Rizzo God gave us you for a while but now you are home. I had the true honor of being your Medical Assistant at FGH in the ER and I will never forget you.
Bless your family and give them strengh and love during this difficult time.
Larry Ewing
January 12, 2010
Peggy, we lost a great friend with John's passing, but my memories of him will be with me the rest of my life. I got to know John at WVU and we were both members of Lambda Chi Alpha. John was always busy at WVU, but if someone needed help, he was there for them. From what I have learned about John's life, he kept that trait of helping people throughout his whole life.
God Bless You and Your wonderful Family
Susan Townsend-Kuhn
January 12, 2010
Dr. John..what can you say about such an admirable man. He listened when no one else would, he helped all he could. I am proud to say that I was one of the people/patients that got to know and respect him and received that respect in return. God has a beautiful place waiting for him and we can all take peace in that. We love and will miss you Dr. John.
Jackie Chambers
January 12, 2010
I'm so glad I can count myself among the thousands of expectant mothers Dr. Rizzo helped in bringing her child into this world. From my first visit, unsure of what may have been happening, he reassured me and made me feel special. I have never stopped thanking God and Dr. Rizzo for the safe delivery of my daughter. My prayers are with his family at this difficult time. God bless you all and thanks for sharing a wonderful doctor with the world.
Kim Miller (CNA)
January 12, 2010
Peggy, it was my pleasure to care for John while he was at the WVVNF. John wss such an admirable man. When you entered his room he always had a smile on his face and was waving his hand and saying Hi. Also Peggy, I admire you for being there each and every day to help in his care May God bless you in this time of need.
larry housley
January 12, 2010
Peggy;
John was an impressive ambassador for Lambda Chi Alpha when I met him and therefore pledged in the '60-61 school year. It was a treat after all the years to see him again at the last two reunions. His community leadership and caring attitude to his patients is a fitting tribute.
Whataguy!
Dr. Larry Housley
Karla Rundle
January 12, 2010
What a wonderful man and doctor! He delivered all three of my children and I always teased him that I didn't want to drag him out of the woods to come to the hospital. I had complications with my first daughter and he held my hand till they put me under and was holding my hand when I woke up. He definately has left footprints on my heart. I hope you find comfort in knowing how many people loved him. God Bless you all!
M. Townsend
January 12, 2010
my thoughts and prayers are with you all during this sad time. Dr john was a great man and he delivered my son 27 yrs ago. he had a nickname for me and always remembered it when i saw him. he will be sadly missed. God be with you all.
Linda Bland
January 12, 2010
My daughter was one of the last babies Doc delivered. I remembered the nurse informing me the next morning, after delivery, that Doc had sat in the rocking chair in the hospital nursery rocking my daughter for hours. This has never left my heart and I hold him so dear. He was a wonderful doctor and person. He will be greatly missed. My deepest sympathy to his family...there is so many who share your loss with you. God Bless each of you!
Michael Anderson
January 12, 2010
John was my brother at Lambda Chi Alpha and I relish memories of our friendship. I have not seen John since the early 1960's but my memory image of him is crisp. I too was one of his ushers at WVU sporting events. The world will miss John. He left a kindly imprint.
Denise Donahoo
January 12, 2010
Peggy, It was a pleasure and an honor to meet and care for John and you while he was at the WVVNF. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.
David, Patty Jean & Brianna Crites
January 12, 2010
There are no words to express how we feel about the loss of such a wonderful man and friend, Dr. John Rizzo. He delivered our precious daughter, 22 years ago. He just made those appointments so enjoyable with his wit and personality. He will truly be missed. May God bless your dear family.
Nancy Whaley
January 12, 2010
Dr. Rizzo will be greatly missed. He delivered my son 33 years ago. He was the greatest Dr. around, and that will never change. I will keep you all in my thoughts and prayers.
Doug and Wilma Burgreen
January 12, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rizzo family during this difficult time. Dr. Rizzo was a wonderful doctor and gentleman.
Kimmy Ryan
January 12, 2010
Doctor Rizzo saved my life ...i had a horrible delivery in Pittsburg and everything went wrong. I came back to Fairmont only to find out there were more complications from the ordeal in Pittsburg. I was an emergency patient through the ER ...Doc wasted no time and got right to the bleeding issue and just in time and i thank him and he was a kind man i said iam scared Doctor Rizzo and he said i know but i am sure everything will come out just fine. He was there right there at 3:30 am and when i got down to surgery he look at me through that mask and said you,ll be fine ok. I felt peace and was so happy he took care of me and i was fine. I only spent 2 or 3 days in the hospital. God bless you and i love you Doctor Rizzo. Thanks.
Donna Tibbs
January 12, 2010
He was a man of honor best dr ever been to he left a good spot in my heart he really cared and made sure that you always was treated good
linda heston
January 12, 2010
my prayers and thoughts are with the family . doc rizzo will be missed .he was the best.
Andrea McElroy
January 11, 2010
I have so many fond memories of Dr. Rizzo. I can still picture him in the stands at Fairmont Catholic cheering us on. May he rest in peace.
Susan Kearns
January 11, 2010
Peggy & Family...I will always have fond memories of Doc John as my longtime doctor, and as a friend who kept me laughing with any one of his many stories! He was always kind and reassuring, but especially so after my mother's death from cancer....My thoughts and prayers are with all of you during this difficult time.
Patricia (Guido) Sell
January 11, 2010
Many years ago I was a nurse at FGH and a patient of Doc Rizzo. He was a very special person and will be fondly remembered. God be with his family in this time of sorrow.
the 3-11 shift WVVNF
January 11, 2010
In My Pocket
I have memories in my pocket.
They rattle among the change.
My memories of you are treasures I carry wherever I go.
They are stored in bits and pieces, parts of a beautiful whole
They give me comfort when I think I am alone.
Yes, I have memories in my pocket, like so much other stuff I keep there.
But of all the treasures I have, it’s the memories of you that are the most precious.
Tony & Ruth Licata
January 11, 2010
Little did we know that when John would babysit our oldest son during my med schol years that he would eventually be the obstetrician that would take care of our daughter-in-law prior to the birth of our grandaughter, Nicole. Although we did not really keep in touch, I'll always remember John as a really great guy.
Our sincere sympathy and prayers are with your entire family.
Antonio S. Licata, MD,(Med School Class of 1964)
& Ruth Licata
January 11, 2010
Where did you come, baby dear?
Out of the everywhere into the here.
Where did you get those eyes so blue?
Out of the sky as I came through.
How did you come to be you?
God thought about me, and so I grew.
But how did you come to us, you dear?
God made Dr. Rizzo, and so I am here.
Sorry for your loss....he was a great man.
Debbie Brewer
January 11, 2010
Dear Peggy and family,
Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless you.
Love,
Debbie
Jim DeFrance
January 11, 2010
To The John Rizzo Family
I have lost a Brother and a friend--My name is Jim DeFrance--I was a Lambda Chi with John at WVU from 1958-61. He truly was a smart, simple guy with a big heart, loved by all the Brothers and anyone who knew him. He gave me an usher job at school for both basketball and football and we both lived in the old fraternity house on Grant Avenue which nearly fell down around us!!! I have many fond memories of those days with John and was fortunate to recall them with him this past year when I visited him several times at the VA Nursing Facility in Clarksburg--My heartfelt condolences and sympathy to all the family--I will carry these good memories of my wonderful Brother John with me forever
Erin Albertson
January 11, 2010
Peggy;
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time.
Kari (Robertson) Dorrian
January 11, 2010
My prayers are with the Rizzo family. Fran, I'm thinking of you at this time. Your family meant a lot to Fairmont.
George & Emily Lamb
January 11, 2010
Dear Peggy and Family,
John was an intelligent, charming, friendly man whom we enjoyed very much every time we were with him. He won't be forgotten.
George and Emily Lamb
Paula Fazio
January 11, 2010
What a wonderful man! I just loved him. He delivered my daughter 22 years ago. He was such a good doctor and took excellent care of me, I couldn't have been in better hands. Rest in peace Dr. Rizzo, I will miss you.
Robin McKenzie
January 11, 2010
Peggy and ALL the kids;
Our love and prayers are with you. John was one heck of a man.
Love,
Robin,Mark, and Pippin
Barb & Paul Heater
January 11, 2010
Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.
Sharon Moore
January 11, 2010
Dr. Rizzo delivered my son. I remember while I was in labor at one point I said that I was hungry & he teased me by stating "you poor thing, I just had spagetti & meatballs & fresh italian bread". Then he laughed, patted my leg & said lets get this baby born. He was a wonderful man & will be missed. My thoughts & prayers are with you.
January 11, 2010
Dear Peggy and family,
I want you know my prayers are with you. As an OB nurse who experienced the joy of working with him, I knew him also as my doctor but most importantly,as my friend. We laughted together many times and I learned so much from him. I believe he is WALKING around heaven now- enjoying himself and looking down at us with that smile on his face. If you ever need anything- don't hesitate to call...
With Love,
Lee Ann Romeo
"Lead"
Robin Douglas
January 11, 2010
To the Rizzo Family,
I am saddened to hear of Dr. rizzo's passing. He was a great Dr. and friend. Both of my children were delivered by him and i would'nt of had it any other way. May God bless and keep you in your Hour of need.
bobbie wilson
January 11, 2010
i had him has a dr he was the best he cared about everyone we need more baby dr like him he cared about his paients he will be missed he was the best sorry about your lost
Ruth Starkey
January 11, 2010
So sorry to hear of your loss. My prayers and thoughts are with you. Doc was a wonderful man and a great doctor. He was a great friend to all! I was honored to be one of his patients almost 30 years ago.
Michael Haught
January 11, 2010
So sorry to hear of your loss. Dr. Rizzo was a great man.
Phillis Tarley
January 11, 2010
Anthony,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. He delivered Johnna at FGH.He was always proffesional and was like everyone's best friend. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He was a great man and a great doctor. This was sent to me when my mom passed in August of last year and want to share it with you.
To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say...
but first of all, to let you know, that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from heaven. Here I dwell with God above.
Here, there's no more tears of sadness; here is just eternal love.
Please do not be unhappy just because I'm out of sight.
Remember that I'm with you every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me and He said, "I welcome you."
It's good to have you back again; you were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here badly; you're part of my plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man.
God gave me a list of things, that he wished for me to do.
And foremost on the list, was to watch and care for you.
And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight.
God and I are closest to you....in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on earth, and all those loving years
because you are only human, they are bound to bring you tears.
But do not be afraid to cry; it does relieve the pain.
Remember there would be no flowers, unless there was some rain.
I wish that I could tell you all that God has planned.
But if I were to tell you, you wouldn't understand.
But one thing is for certain, though my life on earth is o'er.
I'm closer to you now, than I ever was before.
There are many rocky roads ahead of you and many hills to climb;
but together we can do it by taking one day at a time.
It was always my philosophy and I'd like it for you too...
that as you give unto the world, the world will give to you.
If you can help somebody who's in sorrow and pain,
then you can say to God at night......"My day was not in vain."
And now I am contented....that my life has been worthwhile,
knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.
So if you meet somebody who is sad and feeling low,
just lend a hand to pick him up, as on your way you go.
When you're walking down the street, and you've got me on your mind;
I'm walking in your footsteps only half a step behind.
And when it's time for you to go.... from that body to be free,
remember you're not going.....you're coming here to me!
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Johnna McCale
Phillis Tarley
Andy & Sharletta Stevenski
January 11, 2010
Doc Rizzo delivered 2 of the 3 children we brought into this world.Doc was out of town when our first child was born.Had gone fishing he said.My wife made it clear to him he wasn't to go fishing anymore during any of her future delivery dates.Full of chuckles and a smile over what was said.GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.You touched our lives in a great way as so many others.And yes I am sure you will be fishing again someday soon.There was no limits for what this man had achieved..............Andy & Sharletta Stevenski
Susan Kervaski
January 11, 2010
My prayers and throughts are with the Rizzo family at this time. It's been over 30 years since I was a patient of Dr. Rizzo, but I have never forgotten how he treated me as a friend also. The Fairmont communitiy has lost a great asset!
Shawna (VanGilder) West
January 11, 2010
John~
Sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. Thoughts & prayers to you & your family during this difficult time.
January 11, 2010
You don't know me, but your father was the key in us having our oldest son. Our son is adopted and he was instrumental in this endeavor. This son is now 35 years old. I was able to carry 2 babies to term 6 and 7 years later with difficulties. There is no difference in the love of any of our 3 children. We are so thankful that your father assisted us with this adoption. He lived life with gusto. We are so sorry for your loss.
Rick & Nancy Spragg
January 11, 2010
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rizzo family. Dr.Rizzo delivered all three of my children at FGH.He was always proffesional and was like everyone's best friend. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. He was a great man and a great doctor.
LeAnne Conaway
January 11, 2010
John Jr., I am so sorry for your loss. I know how much your father meant to you. My heart and prayers go out to you and your family.
Fondly,
LeAnne Conaway
JOHN BELOTA
January 11, 2010
JOHN J. BELOTA SENDS HIS BEST WISHES TO
THE FAMILY. DR. RIZZO WAS A TRUE
INSPIRATION TO ALL.
Mary Henderson Satterfield
January 11, 2010
Dr. Rizzo definately left a footprint in my heart. I'm so sorry for your loss.
Tuesday Menas
January 11, 2010
He was not only my doctor, but a friend. He treated me as though I were family. I loved going to my Obstetrician and I don't know a lot of women who can say that. He delivered the two most precious gifts in my life and my memories of him will last with me forever. He was a wonderful doctor, man, and friend. I will celebrate his life. May God bless your family, Tuesday Menas
Cindy Brennan
January 11, 2010
Peggy and family,
There are no words to say how sorry we are to hear of Doc's passing. He was a wonderful man and friend, and will be missed so very much. He was loved very much here in Arthur. God Bless you all! We are thinking of you all-- if we can do anything --- please let us know. If it is any comfort at all --- He talked about you all with lots of love and pride! He loved you all.
Sincerely
Cindy, Russ,Russell
and Jeffrey Brennan
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