Search by Name

Search by Name

Jean RIZZONELLI Obituary

Jean Rizzonelli, passed away peacefully at her home in Cotati with Aletha, Michelle and Gigi. Jean was born in Spokane, Washington but spent most of her youth in Idaho. She will be laid to rest in Idaho next to her father Ed and sister Virginia Lou. Her last and most rewarding job was driving a school bus which she did until July 2013 at which time she was diagnosed with cancer. She is survived by her best friend and partner of 32 years, Aletha. Jean's children, Marty, Michelle, Michael, Gigi, Marie, David and Billy. She lost her youngest daughter Theresa in Oct 2013 to cancer, 16 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. She is also survived by her dear cousins Dave, Pena and Benita. Aletha's children; Pam, Lisa, five grandchildren, four great grandchildren. She was loved and admired and will be sorely missed by all. Last rights were performed by John Griffin from St. Vincent Catholic Church on Sunday 8/12/2014. Jean specifically requested a celebration of life in lieu of a service which will be held in 2015. In lieu of flowers please make a donation to the American Cancer Association.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Press Democrat from Aug. 16 to Aug. 18, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for Jean RIZZONELLI

Not sure what to say?





Prestina Alvarez

August 17, 2014

you touched so many lives with your warmth and kindness you you are a remarkable woman grandma Jean I love you and will be miss you dearly this is not goodbye just so long for now until we see each other again

Daniel Olvera

August 17, 2014

Sorry to hear of your passing, will miss your smile, you were a great woman and friend rest in peace.

August 16, 2014

Jean you were such a beautiful awesome woman! You gave your heart to this world and we have great memories of you! Thank you! Joan Jett

Alison Bryan

August 16, 2014

A pleasure to work with and an even better friend. Many years, many laughs, many memories. Thank you for all of it. You are a class act and your absence leaves a void in many. Love and respect <3

August 16, 2014

will miss you

Melissa Wells

August 16, 2014

Love you Jean and I will miss you R.I.P.... Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever. God bless your Family and Aletha

Kristie Schimmelman

August 16, 2014

To a great lady and a hell of a character! Bon Voyage my friend until we meet again!

FirstDavid Name Last Na La Brecqueme

August 16, 2014

Love you, Mom

Cathy and frank Asedo

August 16, 2014

Rest in peace. It was a pleasure knowing you

Showing 1 - 9 of 9 results

Make a Donation
in Jean RIZZONELLI's name

Memorial Events
for Jean RIZZONELLI

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

How to support Jean's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Jean RIZZONELLI's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more