Domenic Steve Rizzi

Domenic was born in 1937 at his family’s home in Los Angeles, California, near 78th and Central. In the midst of the Great Depression, he was raised by his parents, Stefano and Giovannina Rizzi, immigrants from Italy, who came to the United States through Ellis Island in the early 1900s. Growing up with his brothers, Trefoni Rizzi and Michelle Rizzi, his whole family shared a love for music. His father, Stefano, played the mandolin and sang, Trefoni (Tony Rizzi) played the guitar and just about every other string instrument imaginable, and Michelle played the piano. Domenic learned to play the piano, and violin, for a short while, before he found his love for the trumpet and for the rest of his life, the trumpet was simply a part of who he was.

Domenic attended Edison Elementary School and Fremont High School, where he was active in the Marching Band and Concert Band. He was also an athlete, playing Football and Tennis. It was at Fremont High School where he met Janet W. Stromme. They fell in love and after High School, she soon became his bride. Domenic attended USC and studied music and played on their Football Team, but ultimately, chose a different path and became a family man.

He became a Sheet Metal Journeyman, after completing professional training at Los Angeles Trade Technical College. He worked in construction for a number of years before he was employed by the Los Angeles County Mechanical Department. He was with LA County for over 28 years when he chose early retirement to “play trumpet, go fishing and play golf”!

Domenic and Janet raised three children, Trefoni (Tony), Stephanie and John, first in Monterey Park and then Alhambra, California. He spent many years actively involved in the community and with family activities, including coaching Junior All-American Football with the San Gabriel Dons and the Alhambra Thunderbirds. Domenic was very involved in both organizations as a Board Member and Coach. When the kids were at Alhambra High School, you could always find him in the stands with his trumpet playing CHARGE at key moments in every football game. He was also involved with the Alhambra Players, helping behind the scenes, building scenery and more importantly, playing his trumpet in the band for their many musicals.

Domenic’s love for music was only rivaled by his love for Fishing and Camping. From the annual summer camping trips to Silver Lake in the June Lake Loop, to the weeks

spent camping on the beach in Ensenada, to the road trips throughout Utah and the Pacific Northwest looking for that “perfect fishing lake”, Domenic built a world of wonderful memories for himself and his family. His house was always a home, wherever the family happened to be, and often, that included many “extra” kids, friends of Tony, Stephanie and John. Over the years, at home and on vacation, many wonderful kids became an extended part of the family.

Domenic loved sharing his passion for music. For over 50 years, Domenic was a member of at least one and often as many as 5 different Community Bands across Southern California. He played his trumpet for Civic Events like Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day, as well as Formal Concerts. A few bands he most recently played with include, The Monterey Park Concert Band and The Burbank Community Band. He also regularly played his trumpet for mass and special events with the Choir at St. Thomas More Catholic Church for many, many years.

During his retirement, Domenic enjoyed caring for and playing with his Grandchildren, Gabriela and Domenic. From walks to Granada Park to play on the swings, to riding bikes on Hitchcock Drive, to Raspberry Kisses on their cheeks and tummies, Domenic loved his Grandchildren beyond words.

Domenic’s spirit and love for music and his family will be greatly missed, but his family knows he is now at peace with the Lord and free from pain. Domenic is survived by his sons Trefoni (Tony), John and his wife Fran, his two grandchildren, Gabriela and Domenic and his long-time companion Paulette Westphal. Predeceased family members include his wife of 49 years, Janet (2008) and his daughter Stephanie (2013). It was a blessing to have him in our lives and he will be greatly missed.

Our family thanks you for sharing your memories, fun stories and kind words on the Memorial Page or personally.

Due to COVID, attendance to the Rosary and Funeral are extremely limited and by invitation only. We appreciate your understanding.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.PBturnerstevens.com for the Rizzi family.