Leonard “Leo” Rizzuto, age 91, passed away early Monday morning. Born April 24th, 1924 to parents Nicola and Guiseppa (Costanza), Leo was a lifelong North End resident. His younger years were spent working for his family’s bakery on Prince St. That is where Leo met his beautiful wife, the late Louise “Lou-Lou” Rizzuto (Nuzzo). They had three boys, the late Nicholas “Nicky”, the late Gaetano “Guy”, and Leonard “Lenny” of Everett. As the area changed over the years, people saw Leo as a human landmark that represented the old Italian culture and philosophy from years ago. The iconic image of him leaning back in his chair outside his brick building has been captured in photos, paintings and even the Boston Globe. Leo worked proudly for Wolfer’s Lighting for many years, and loved gadgets of all shapes and sizes.
In addition to his son, he leaves behind his granddaughter Stephanie of Medford, grandson Leonard of Woburn, and great-grandchildren Nicholas, Anthony, Liliana, Nadia, and Nina. In his later years, Stephanie and her family took great care of Leo, making sure he was always close to loved ones.
Funeral from the Dello Russo Funeral Home, 306 Main St., MEDFORD Thursday, August 13th at 9 AM followed by a funeral mass celebrated in St. Leonard Church, Hanover St., Boston, at 9:45 AM. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend and may visit with the family from 8:30-9 AM. Services will conclude with burial at Holy Cross Cemetery, Malden.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in memory of Leo and Louise to St. Leonard’s Church, 320 Hanover St, Boston, MA 02113.