Robert A. Rizzo

Born October 21, 1952, in Hartford, CT, Robert A. Rizzo peacefully passed surrounded by family on Sunday, March 17, 2024, at the age of 71. Robert was the beloved husband of Deborah (Kerr) Rizzo. He loved NW CT and lived most of his life in Torrington and Harwinton. 

Bob’s younger days were filled with cars and bowling. He spent hours perfecting his game and enjoyed driving to tournaments throughout New England. He bowled three perfect games. Later, he learned to upholster and worked at his shop, Acton Upholstering, for more than 40 years. He was just as excited to get to work on a new project at the end of his career as he was many years ago. He excelled at everything he put his mind to. Bob had a deep love for his dogs, Airedales Lucy, and Bella, and they enjoyed going to work greeting customers and making deliveries just as much as he did. In these last months, he often commented that he was looking forward to seeing them again.

Bob was a kindhearted man quick to smile. He liked a challenge and could often be found helping others or finding a way to solve a problem. He was also civic minded, serving on the board of the Community Kitchen of Torrington for several years and participating in other charitable events in town.

In his later years, Bob enjoyed working outdoors at his home, caring for his pets, and driving around in his Triumph. He was a good cook and liked to prepare Italian meals at home. He also loved to eat out with family and friends. Bob was an avid Yankee fan and followed UCONN basketball. He looked forward to discussing their strategy and performance with his sister, Lorraine, daily. Conversations with his brother, Mike, helped him stay strong and focused. More than anything, Bob was passionate about family. He appreciated the efforts of his son-in-law, Thomas Martin, and his brother-in-law, Nicholas Molino, who were so helpful in ensuring that he could stay home during his illness. He was fiercely proud of his daughter, Nicole, and was his happiest when spending time with her at the beach or at her home, chatting, decorating or just quietly relaxing.

Even after Bob became ill, he maintained his keen sense of humor. Family and friends visited often. He enjoyed these visits and cherished the times family came together. When he couldn’t talk, he smiled or winked. He never complained. Bob stated shortly before he passed, “No regrets. What a wonderful life I’ve led!” 

In addition to his wife Deborah, Robert is survived by one daughter, Nicole Martin and her husband Thomas Martin of Poughkeepsie, NY; one brother, Michael D Rizzo of Voluntown, CT; one sister, Lorraine Molino and her husband Nicholas Molino of Harwinton, CT, as well as several nieces and nephews. Robert is predeceased by his parents, Michael, and Teresa (Repoli) Rizzo.

There are no calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, June 1, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church (Our Lady of Hope Parish), 78 Litchfield Rd., Harwinton, CT 06791. A celebratory gathering will follow for friends and colleagues to reminisce. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harwinton Volunteer Ambulance Service, 166 Burlington Road, Harwinton, CT 06791.