Francis (Frank) Rizzo

Francis (Frank) Rizzo, 89, of Rock Hill, SC and formerly of various locations in New York State and California, as well as Vernon, NJ, passed away peacefully October 5, 2020 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born August 9th, 1931 in Brooklyn, NY, Son of the late Joseph and Josephine Rizzo.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his first wife Dolores Ann Rizzo and brother Bernard Rizzo.

He leaves a lasting legacy to be cherished by his survivors, his wife of 20 years, Christine Rizzo; sons, Gregory and wife, Brenda of Carrollton, TX; Geoffrey of Stuart, FL; and Francis and wife, Linda of Windsor NY; as well as 6 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Frank was an Honorably discharged veteran of the US Air Force and the Korean War and very proud of his service.  He was a long-time salesman and sales manager for Doubleday Publishing and small business owner of Frank Rizzo and Associates.

As many of you know, bicycling was a passion for Frank.  He took it up when his first wife Dolores passed away 25 years ago, and it was through bicycling that he met his then future wife Chris Rizzo.  Nothing stopped his passion since, not even getting hit by a bus, until his final bout with cancer.  When he turned 75 he began an annual birthday bike ride, biking a mile for every year of his life, changing to kilometers when he turned 83. He made many dear friends over the years who shared his passion for biking.

The family would like to extend their sincere appreciation to all the Kindred hospice nurses, physicians and staff, and friends for their unwavering compassionate and supportive care that was provided.  Your kindness will never be forgotten.

It was Frank’s wishes to be cremated and interred at the National Cemetery at Fort Jackson, SC.  No service will be held at his request.

In lieu of flowers, Frank requested memorial donations be made to:

www.bikeleague.org/give

or by mail to;

League of American Bicyclists

1612 K St NW, Ste 1102

Washington, DC 20006