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1951 - 2010

BORN

1951

DIED

2010

Peter Brizzi Obituary

Deeply saddened by the 2010 election results, Peter Brizzi decided to permanently pull up stakes in California on Thursday, Nov. 4, 2010, and head on to a happier home where there is no voting.
Peter was 58 years old, and had been happily married to Teena Brizzi for 35 years. He also leaves behind a son, Ethan; a daughter, Regina; a son-in-law, Seth, and two cherished grandsons, Isaiah and Dominic, as well as his East Coast siblings, Carol, Paul and Cathy.
Peter was a man who lived life to the fullest, right up to the last minute when his big heart gave out on him. He always followed his passions, which included hitch-hiking from his birthplace in New Jersey out to Big Sur when he was 18. He fell in love with California and made it his home. Peter was a very talented puppeteer, and the children of the Bay Area will be missing out on his fabulous, entirely hand-crafted shows. Family, friends and acquaintances will miss his big smile, genuine heart, and awful puns. We are sure he is lounging in a hammock with his saintly namesake, enjoying a fine heavenly cigar and glass of red wine. Dear husband, beloved father, adored "Papa"… we love you so much and miss you.
Memorial service will be held on Saturday, Nov. 20th at 1 p.m., at Salinas Valley Community Church, 368 San Juan Grade Road, Salinas, Calif. 93906.

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

Published by The Salinas Californian on Nov. 10, 2010.

Memories and Condolences
for Peter Brizzi

50 Entries

Lisa Mende

November 4, 2024

My dear old friend. You are missed and deeply mourned.

Lisa Mende

November 4, 2023

You are missed,old friend.

Rick Bella

November 8, 2022

I met Peter when we both attended Teaneck High School. His cartooning was excellent and highly entertaining. Luckily, we connected again years later, when he was living in California and I in Oregon. I wish we had been able to get together again. As you can see, all these years later, I still think of him.

Patricia Varga

November 4, 2021

Peter you are missed and I know your beloved wife and adult children are thinking of you today!
My son got to meet half of your family this year and he loved them.
I kept thinking I wish he could have enjoyed a cigar with you too.
I don´t understand all that stuff but it doesn´t matter what matters is that Béla was lovingly accepted into your family with the love of God. I am forever grateful to them.
You have left an exceptional legacy that´s for sure and you dear wife´s heart also reflects that love that you two gave out together and then produced in your children too.
Im sure you are enjoying heaven. Not much longer now and when the Trumpet sounds either individually or corporately, well be there too.
Thinking about all the Brizzis and Nelson family today.

Eileen Riman

November 4, 2021

Always missed and never forgotten.

Lisa Mende

November 4, 2020

Can't believe it's been ten years. You are deeply missed, my dear old friend.

Lisa Mende

November 7, 2019

Always in my heart, my friend.

Pam Stone

November 20, 2010

Dear Teena, Ethan and Regina, may God wrap his arms around you at this difficult time, as we thank Him for such a beautiful person he gave to all of us in Peter! Until we see him again....

Bryan Brazier

November 20, 2010

Peter Brizzi carried a message of love that transcended his religion, his job title, and all the rolls a human dances through in this life. When I heard it was all said and done the first thing that came to me was that the beautiful attributes of this human being are no longer with us in form. He was a master craftsman with his tongue and when he put his arm around you sincerity was there in its truest form. Love isn't warehoused. It is solely the humans and I am honored to have met that love in the flesh. Because of you Peter, I too will leave a legacy of love. It is the only thing in life that lingers when all the words are gone. I will remember you always.

Carol Smith

November 19, 2010

Dear Teena, Ethan, Regina & family: We were saddened to hear of Peter's passing. No doubt he is in glory sharing his talents up there. I remember him picking the best cook in YFT to walk through life with him. You two were one of the "bright" lights through the years there. Our thoughts and prayers are with you during this time. Love, Ralph & Carol Smith

LiL G & Family

November 18, 2010

Peter was one of my groomsmen. Why? In early 1990 I had accepted an offer to attend another church service, after 2 months on the run from the lord. It was the longest sermon in the world, because all I wanted to do was get away from Jesus. then came the alter call, Good 5 more minutes, and I am out of her, and I am never stepping back into another Church again, Another alter call, I was angry, angry at myself, because I agreed to attend one more service, Then another alter call, I was still angry, because everyone seemed so happy, and I was so misrable inside, Last alter call, good one more minute & I am out of here. My palms were sweaty as I sat in the closes seat to the back door. I was planning my escape, before anyone had a chance to talk to me. I was ready to make my move for the door. But before I was able to shift toward the isle, There suddenly came out of no were a tap on my shoulder from behind me. I looked up into the eyes of Peters stern but loving eyes, Whats this guy want, he says very softly to me, you know why you are here, then waves to me to follow him & just boldly starts walking down to the alter excpecting me to follow & dose not look back, Who is this guy? He knows nothing about me, but he was right, he knew why I was there & so did I, Moments later I was kneeling at the alter with Peter as he prayed with me as I re-dedicated my life back to the lord, as I wept for forgiveness, Peter gently put his arm around me and gave me a little hug, just to let me know that he was there to support me encourage me & let me know that I was loved. Another minute with know tap on the shoulder, who knows were my life would be today, but by Peter listning to the Holy spirit & leading me back into the arms of Jesus, I still serve the same lord Peter directed me back to 20 years ago, and I have not one regret. Jesus has not changed. I wonder how many other people are in Heaven right now & still serving the lord because of Peter's caring heart. Teena, Ethan, Regina may Jesus wrap his arms around you Just as your Husband & Father did for me 20 years ago & may Jesus let you know that he is there for you, supporting you & may he encourage you & let you know that he Loves you very much. Thank you Brizzi family for the the Gift and memories you have given me. I will always be her for you all. With Love

November 18, 2010

Peter and I were together years ago in Palo Colorado Canyon. We slept under the stars together talking late at night about lots of cool things. We explored the deep
redwoods there finding old pioneer cabins and cooling ourselves by the local waterfall. We herded and milked a goat herd. Peter talked to goats, especially to one that was very stubborn named Mrs No. Peter later worked with me at the Carmelite Monastery and was a was dearly appreciated by the nuns especially Sister Ann Marie. It was a pleasure to know Peter in those early fervent days of faith and wonder. I am so sorry for the passing of a great person. Love and blessings to you all Teena, Ethan and Regina love and blessings Gerry and Dede Bunker

Douglas Plack

November 15, 2010

To the Brizzi Family,
At times like this, words seem so powerless to express my thoughts. Still perhaps I hope you will understand what words leave unspoken, and know my heartfelt sympathy is with your family at this difficult time. Although dim in comparison, I truly share in your sadness, as I was fortunate enough to have called Peter my friend.

I attended and graduated from high school with Peter. Just looking at his picture brings back so many fond memories. When I look at his infectious smile, I think back to the great times we shared and I can still hear the laughter -- with Peter around, there was always laughter as he had a great sense of humor, a lust for life and certainly the talent to make those around him happy. I feel blessed to have known him, honored to have experienced his friendship, and privileged to have shared so many special times with him. I will greatly miss him, but will always think of and remember him fondly.

In time, I hope you will find comfort in your memories of him as well, and the knowledge that although all to short, Peter was an amazing man that lived a good life filled with love and friendship. I also hope you can rest assured that some day we will all meet again. In the days to come, if there is anything I can do, please do not hesitate to let me know. Again, you are in my thoughts and prayers and have my deepest sympathy.

Teresa Johnson

November 14, 2010

My heartfelt condolences go out to Teena, Regina, & Ethan. You have lost an incredibly gifted soul. Peter, thank you for allowing our daughters to be friends. Unlike many around you, you knew that love was the answer.
May the work you began on earth continue to light the way.

November 14, 2010

Peter was a gentle,funny, and kind person who it was my pleasure to know from elementary school thru graduation. I will always think of him with a smile when I look at the yearbook picture I took of him as the White Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland.Jane Zuckman Panza, Woodbury,Ct

Constance Boies

November 14, 2010

Dear Teena, Ethan, and Regina, I am so sorry about your tremendous loss! My memories of Peter are from the many years at YFT. He loved Jesus and loved people! I can still hear him singing, "The Lord of the Dance." No one could sing it quite like him. And his abundance of cartoons live on in infamy. My thoughts and prayers are with you and may the God of all comfort keep you in His wonderful peace.

Leslie Horowitz - Willis

November 13, 2010

I was lucky to have known Peter since elem. school in Teaneck. His fun loving spirit will be greatly missed but will live on through his wonderful family.

Patty Brett Shupnik

November 12, 2010

Peter was an extremely talented person. We were in homeroom together through Teaneck High and I got to enjoy many of his drawings. He touched the lives of many and will be missed.

November 12, 2010

So sad to hear of Peter's passing. Know that he touched so many lives and lives on in each one of them in some way. He was such a talented man! Our deepest condolences to his family and close friends. Elan Esprit Preschool

David Hurley

November 12, 2010

Sad to hear about Peter, we were hoping he would be at our 40th reunion last month. Knew him since 5th grade, we probably sat together hundreds of hours drawing and talking during art all the way up thru high school. Also could play a mean version of I'm a steam roller baby. When I was 18 Peter was a stand in for the Dalai Lama, grace and wisdom with a smile. When I reach whatever gate is on the other side I will ask" When does the puppet show begin? Dave Hurley

November 12, 2010

To say that The Holidays won't be the same without you is a quiet whisper when I think of how much I wanted my kids to call you "Papa Peter", wanted to hear you and Gary play music together, reflect on your gentle cheek kiss for all the years we were family but just smiled and toasted...one thinks there is always time to learn about our elders, but as Regina said, "there just wasn't enough time." Your eyes and smile I think I'll miss the most but as the days go on I know it will be your capability for acceptance and the way you shared that gift with the Bay Area for 30 years that is most inspiring. Proud to ever have shared a toast at your table-Sheri and Gary.

Wayne Pamela McBroom

November 11, 2010

Teena, Ethan, and Regina; We are so sad to hear about Peter. He was a very talented man and his puppeteering was top notch. God bless you all at this most difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Wayne, Pamela, and family

Norma Haas Rosen

November 11, 2010

Quiet confidence, a humble witty man, like a Cheshire Cat Smiling endlessly, whimsical drawings with voices to match his sparkling eyes and introspective laughter is how I will remember Peter. We were classmates from Whittier Elementary School until graduation from Teaneck High School. Peter, a generous soul that was kind to anyone will surely be missed by everyone. May his family, friends and colleagues be comforted by wonderful memories of a life of joy, generosity and creativity well lived!

Saul Schoenberg

November 11, 2010

Nov 12th
It's sad. He looks different in some ways from the Teaneck days but when looked at closer there he is! Wonderful. when we were a group of young people trying to figure it out, I remember he would look at me and grin, or show a drawing and I would feel like going on.

He's all Yours now God thanks for the good times we had with him

Annie Beechum

November 11, 2010

Dear Teena, Ethan, Regina and family...Our prayers and sincere condolances to you all. Such a tragic loss for your family and for all who knew him. The Peter I will miss and the one I am sure was called home to Bless God in his Shekina Glory...carried a large wooden cross through the streets and shared the good news with all who would listen. He helped many a young man as they passed through his home and he gave out words of wisdom such as...Marry in Haste, Repent at Leisure;) He was a gifted artist and was always happy to share his gifts and talents. He taught me to draw and I still have my sketch pads from that time. I suppose that for a peace loving hippy the world was getting too crazy...your gain Peter is our Loss, you will be missed but we all look forward to that day when we will all be gathered around singing the song of the victorious!! May God fill the empty places...May His Grace and Mercy abound to each one of us who feel this huge loss.

Phil Ackerly

November 11, 2010

Dear Teena and Family, I am so sorry to hear the sad news. We did many gigs together over the years. I would be packing up from my magic show and he would be coming in to set up his puppet show. I will alway remember his smile and gentle voice. Please, please let me know if I can do anything for you. In sympathy, Phil Ackerly

Gabe Carrillo

November 11, 2010

Dear Brizzi Family,
I am so so sorry to hear of Peters passing. He always had a smile and was encouraging. What a loss. We are praying for you in this very difficult time. But I can imagine Peter and my dad up there swapping old YFT stories.

Esther Toon

November 10, 2010

Dear Brizzi family,
I am so sorry for your great loss! I will be praying for you.
My best memories of Peter were the two times I sang with him. I considered it a priviledge to accompany his classical and unique voice. He was a great musician, as well as artist!
I expected that my family would get to meet up with him again someday--and you too, Teena (which is still plausible!). I regret that that will have to wait until the hereafter. But I'm glad for that hope!
Love in Christ

George and Suzy McGowan

November 10, 2010

A jewel of a man has left this world. We will always remember his kindness. Our thoughts and prayers are with you Teena, Ethan and Regina.

Kari McLaughlin

November 10, 2010

My Uncle Peter was a terrific man. He always took time to take me to puppet shows, give me art lessons, play music with me and come to see my performances. His love of learning and the arts was so evident!! I love him so much and will miss his big hugs, great cooking and his loving smile. He was such a wonderful man and I truly believe he is in the best place and smiling down on us all.

Caryn Siegel

November 10, 2010

I went to school from elementary school at Whittier to High School with Peter. I remember him always as a kind soul who loved to draw cartoon characters. I'm very sorry for your loss.

TONI GERSTEIN

November 10, 2010

When i think of Peter i think of his beautiful smile,i think a smile is the mirror of the soul. He was a kind friend,gentle spirit. I will miss him. Teena,Ethan and Regina,and his family may God bless and give you comfort,courage and peace. Love Toni

Rita Gatti

November 10, 2010

Oh my...so hard to believe he is not still there, making puppets and putting on his beautiful shows...I remember him teaching us to make simple puppets at camp...and the shows on Main St. in the Buttonwillow days, during Big Week and such. Lots of rich memories as he used and shared his artistic talents with so many.
Loving thoughts to Ethan, Regina and Teena, the little guys that will miss having such a grand...grandpa, Isaiah and Dominic. To all the great times that will not be, may his legacy fill up the void as much as possible. Thankgiving: that you all have each other and a full circle of family and friends and that he did not suffer. Bon Voyage good ole friend. love Rita

Laurie Knowles

November 10, 2010

I was so saddened to hear of Peter's death. As another old Teaneck friend, I share the thoughts of others who have written: peace be with you during these difficult days.

Peter and my late husband Dennis Clermont were great friends back in the 70's -- so much laughter and love was shared between them! I always smile when I think of Peter and Dennis together.

I am certain you have many of those moments of laughter and love to treasure and gain comfort and strength from during the challenging days you are in.

In great sympathy,
Laurie

Kimberly McCullick

November 10, 2010

Dear Peter, You were a great example of a loving husband and father. The way you were never afraid to show your love or give your children a hug even during church was an example that I want to follow with my kids. I was laughing when I read the part about your terrible puns, because yes, sometimes they were awful, but that's what made them funny. You were so talented, creative, and loving and you will be greatly missed by everyone who was blessed to know you.

November 10, 2010

I was a high school friend of Peter's. He was so talented, so sweet, so funny and now, so missed! Paul Bilsky

Stephanie Cochran

November 10, 2010

Dear Teena, Ethan, and Regina,
Jim and I have some many memories of Peter. The one that stands out is when we lost Kirsten and Peter came to the house to talk about arrangments. He was so kind and understanding. He was our buffer and I will forever be thankful for that.
Our love and prayers go out to you and your family. May the love you shared be like a cloak that wraps you in its warmth as you go on.
Love, Jim, Stephanie, Kurt, Karina, Karah and Karissa Cochran

John and Mary Anthony

November 10, 2010

Dear Teena, Regina and Ethan, John and I are deeply saddened by the sudden loss of our brother. But that is nothing to the grief you must experience at this time.
There are no words that can convey our heartfelt sympathy.
We treasure the wonderful memories we share, and pray for God's guidance as you walk into the future, knowing that it holds a heavenly reunion someday.
love and prayers, Mary and John

November 10, 2010

How thankful and fortunate I am that our family was able to be a part of your lives. As I sit in my home, I see Peters handiwork all over it from paint, wallpaper, and stainded mantels. He was no doubt an artistic prodigy! He even was a better father, husband, and friend. We will miss you Peter. All our prayers and love for Teena, Regina, and Ethan.
Sandra Smith and children

November 10, 2010

I was a very old friend of Peter's from Teaneck High. I just want to share with his family how talented we all knew he was back then. For years I looked for his art and wondered what he was doing with that wonderful talent. Then a few years ago.. I heard that he was a puppeteer in California.. and it made so much sense to me.. Peter sharing his art with children. I am very sorry for your loss. Pam Miller, Ft. Lee, NJ

Shawnie McLaughlin

November 10, 2010

Uncle Peter was such an amazing guy. Always willing to take a moment to talk. Never too busy to help with artistic question/techniques.

We'll miss you Uncle Peter. You left the fam a little too early so don't be suprised if I tip you off your hammock when I see you in the sky.

Frankie English

November 10, 2010

Peter was an absolutely amazing man. He added so much happiness to all those around him. We will miss you Peter. Sending out prayers and the warmest of wishes. Lots of love....Frankie English

Patricia Varga

November 10, 2010

Dear Teena, Regina and Ethan,

What a list of memories I have of all of you including Peter. The one that I have been going over mostly is this; The beginning of Pat's Pet Parlor. You might not remember Teena but you and Peter were the ones who confirmed what I already suspected. My next big step in life. You were both so kind and sweet and so encouraging in suggesting what you had been thinking about. It turned out to be the real deal for me. I remember too as a single lady having such loving and gentlemanly guys of whom Peter was one was such a relief and so refreshing. We have three of those
beautiful puppets that you sent to help us for Christmas already made up and I know everytime we look at those while the children are singing away in the manger, I will be thinking of all of you precious folks and especially your beloved husband and father. I can see him smiling down on the puppet show. I hope we do him proud! Love you all a lot and will always appreciate each of you. Regina you have been such a personal encouragement to me, Ethan you wrote a little note not too long ago on facebook with your insignts which I so appreciated and Teen a your recent help is just all a reflection on who you all are down to the core and who you have always been since I first met you! May the peace of God surround you and hold you up at this time.
All my love,
Patricia Varga

Karen Quinlin

November 10, 2010

I wish I had gotten to know Peter more after YFT... we haven't seen him since 1987! But- I can see from everything people have written that he was a kind, loving husband, father, grandpa and brother! I know he will be missed and we are praying for you who are left behind (for now) I am thankful to be in touch with you Teena!

Christy Hadland

November 10, 2010

Amazing...so hard to believe! I'm so grateful that Jett and Owen were able to see one of Peter's puppet shows and sadly it was the last time we saw him. You will be missed Mr. Brizzi...thank you for the wonderful people you have left behind and I pray that God & your spirit will comfort them in the coming months. xoChristy Hadland and Family

Eileen Kaplan Riman

November 10, 2010

Teena I am so saddened and shocked by Peter's sudden passing. We were friends from our elementary school days in Teaneck and spent so many fun and memorable times together. I was missing him at our recent high school reunion and thinking how much more fun it would have been if he was there. Please know how much he will be missed by all of us and you and your family are in my thoughts and prayers. I will never forget Peter and will miss him forever.

November 10, 2010

We will miss you Peter. We loved your fun puppet shows and am thankful we have a video of it from Jakey's 1st birthday. You were such a sweet and kind man. I'm thankful for the times we got to spend with you and Teena. We're praying for God's peace and comfort for you all during this difficult time. love you guys....James and Lyns

Lisa Mende

November 10, 2010

Oh Teena,
Oh dear lord I am shocked beyond belief and so miserable at this news.
I am so blessed that Peter and I got to take that road trio a few years back and visit Big Sur together.
He was my friend.He was really my friend....I hurt for you, for you all in my heart and know that your abiding faith will lend you inner strength.
Sorry does not cover what I feel.
Lisa Mende

Karen

November 10, 2010

I am so sorry Regina. Such a sad and huge loss. What a special Dad he must have been to have such a special daughter. We'll see you soon to remember your amazing Dad. Love you.

paul and julie mclaughlin

November 10, 2010

Dear Peter: Boy are we going to miss you!! Those awful puns, your steady presence and joy. Teena, Ethan and Regina we love you, pray for you and will be there for you always.
Love
Paul and Julie

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