Paul Rizzo

Paul was born on February 7, 1923 to Crispino and Vincenza and died at home in Grosse Pointe on April 2, 2020 at the age of 97. Paul grew up in Detroit and attended Wayne State University, receiving his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree in 1944 at the age of 21.  He served in the Marine occupation force in Japan at the end of WW II.  After returning home, he taught pathology and completed his surgical residency at Detroit Receiving Hospital.

As his medical training ended, he was again called into service, serving on the USS Consolation Navy hospital ship in Korea and as a medical officer at Camp Pendleton. In 1955, Paul began the surgical practice he loved, and he worked tirelessly during his 30-year career in Detroit, primarily at St. John and Bon Secours Hospitals. He was Chief of Surgery and President of the Staff at St. John Hospital.

 

During retirement, Paul continued his work in intestinal research and on an insurance claims committee while he began his next life phase as photographer and grandfather.  He had a lifelong passion for travel, skiing, golf, bridge, reading and photography. 

He is survived by his brother Joseph and five children – Paul (Kathleen), Mike (Jane), Jayne Reardon (Michael), Theresa Brooks (John), and Laura as well as 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren. Paul outlived his first two wives, Jane Connolly and Marilyn Sutherland, and is survived by his spouse Mea Rutan and her children Christopher and Kristin and their 7 children.

A memorial celebration in honor of Paul Rizzo will take place when it is possible, likely in some months.