Michael Joseph Rizco

Michael Joseph Rizco, age 74, affectionately known by many nicknames including Papi, Mikey, Papa Riz, Papino, Gagoo, Papa Smurf, Lefty and the big kahuna, passed away on March 8, 2026, at Mount Carmel Hospital in Grove City, Ohio. He was born July, 17, 1951 in New Brunswick, New Jersey to his parents Catino Rizco and Theresa Szymborski.

Michael grew up in South River, New Jersey, where he proudly attended South River High School and played football. From a young age, Michael embodied strength, dedication, and service to others – qualities that defined his life. He went on to serve his country in the Untied States Navy during the Vietnam War, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty and courage.

Throughout his life, Michael worked in several roles that continued his spirit of helping others, including serving as a firefighter, EMT, and truck driver. No matter the job, he brought hard work, resilience, and heart to everything he did.

Michael truly enjoyed life’s simple pleasures. He loved spending time with friends at the North Brunswick Pub, visiting the Jersey Shore, and making trips to Atlantic City. A passionate sports fan, Michael enjoyed both playing and watching sports and was a devoted supporter of the New York Giants, New York Yankees, and the Ohio State Buckeyes. He also had a special love for professional wrestling – something he especially enjoyed watching with his son Joey and his beloved granddaughter, Cadence.

One of Michael’s greatest talents was his cooking. An incredible cook, he spent years working in restaurants and took great joy in preparing meals for friends and family. He was always willing to help those around him and cherished spending time with family and friends, especially during the holidays—cooking Thanksgiving dinner was his favorite. The kitchen was one of the many places where his generosity and warmth shined brightest.

Above all, Michael was devoted to his family. He was a loving husband to his wife Kathy, a guiding mentor to his son Joey and daughter Michele, and an absolute hero to his cherished granddaughter, Cadence Rizco.

Michael was truly one of a kind. His presence, kindness, humor, and strength left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him. He touched countless lives, inspired many, and will always be remembered as a man whose legacy lives on in the hearts of those he loved.

Michael is survived by his spouse, Kathleen Rizco; his children, Joey Rizco, Shelly Rizco, and Denise O’Halloran; and his grandchild, Cadence Marie Rizco. He is also survived by his siblings, Johnny Rizco, Dr. Cathy Brown and Fran Baker.

He is also survived by many dear friends who were like family to him, including Bruce and Laurie; Stacy and Bill; Bret and Allison; Billy, Ryan, and Pamela; Lorraine, Nana, DJ, Alan, Billy, Peachy, and Margie; Travis, Sarah, and Wyatt; Derek, Gavin, Ricky, and Mckenlee Bradford; Terrell Saviour; Taylor Fickes; Josh Brady, Hannah Brady, and Christine and Jason Bucher; Dave and the Thomas family; Jennifer Miller; Ryan Banks; Devin Shidaker; Justin Davis; Mike Neumann; Shelli Shidaker McGhee and Damien McGhee; Myles, Paula, and the Mosley family; Katie and the Powell family; Courtney Robinson and the Cherry Street Diner; and many, many, many more.

Michael is preceded in death by his parents Catino and Theresa Rizco; siblings Barbara and Billy Rizco.

A service to celebrate his life will be held on March 14, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at 1305 Lamplighter Drive, Grove City, Ohio 43123.

The family would like to give a special thanks to the staff at Brookdale, OSU, and Mount Carmel. Thank you all so much!