MICHAEL RIZZO, NATIVE ISLANDER, FDNY, KOREAN WAR VETERAN

Mike was born in Bulls Head (Graniteville) on April 27, 1932. After residing in Willowbrook for more than 60 years, he spent his final years at The Esplanade, only two blocks from where he grew up. Mike passed away peacefully on July 6, 2026.

Mike attended PS 22 and McKee Vocational High School. In 1950, he enlisted in the Navy serving aboard the USS Philippine Sea (CV-47). Mike joined the FDNY in 1957 serving his first three years at 55 Engine in Little Italy, and then as a “plank owner” of Engine 165 in New Dorp from its opening on June 18, 1960, until he retired in 1991.

In his younger days, Mike could be found tinkering in his basement workshop creating wooden and metal crafts. He was a life-long Yankees fan, enjoyed playing golf with the “All-Hands” Retirees Golf Club until he was nearly ninety, and loved to play poker as often as he could, whether “friendly games” with other retirees or at a casino in Atlantic City.

Mike was a proud member of VFW Post 7172. He was a past member of American Legion Five Star Post, the 24th MI Army Reserve Unit, and the Holy Name Society at St. Teresa Parish. In 1966, he and his family were founding members of Holy Family Parish.

Mike was married to Mary (Casciano) for 64 years, before her passing in 2020. He is survived by his sons, Michael of Orange County, CA and Brian (Gretchen) of Columbia County, NY, his grandson John (Alexie) of Orange County, CA, and his great grandson Luke.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Church at 10:30 a.m. on August 7, 2026, followed by Interment with his beloved wife at St. Peter's Cemetery.