Benedict J. Pizzo

Benedict J. Pizzo

Benedict J. Pizzo, age 89, passed away on August 6, 2021 after an extended illness. Born in Erie on January 31, 1932, he was the son of the late Francisco (Frank) and Maria (LaFuria) Pizzo.

Ben was a 1950 graduate of Strong Vincent High School. He was a veteran of the U.S. Army, and served in active duty during the Korean War. He worked as a personnel representative at Modern Industries and as a purchasing agent for the Erie Housing Authority. He served as president of the Erie Water Authority. He was an active member of Sacred Heart Parish and volunteered for many of the events held at the church.

He was a lover of history, especially the Civil War, and made the trip to Gettysburg no less than 15 times. He loved opera, classical music and forever the New York Yankees. Of all the things he cherished, none were more important to him than family. He was happiest when entertaining a house full of people, always making sure everyone was tended to before sitting down himself.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his five siblings Samuel Pizzo, Angelo Pizzo, Olivia Pizzo (Smith), Rose Pizzo (Arduini) and Thomas Pizzo. Two nephews, Archangelo Arduini and Frank Pizzo, and two nieces Teresa Arduini Tibbetts and Louise Arduini Gallagher.

He is survived by his wife of 66 years, Glorine (Batistelli) Pizzo, a daughter Mary Jane Carroll (Jeff) and a son Stephen (Erin); four grandchildren Carly Carroll Pollock (Kevin) of Houston, TX, Christopher Carroll (Jillian), Gabriella (Ella) Pizzo and Samuel Pizzo, all of Erie. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Friends are invited to call at Orlando Funeral Home, Inc. 2122 Raspberry Street, on Monday from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. and may attend a Funeral Mass on Tuesday at Sacred Heart Church, 816 West 26th Street, at 10:00 a.m. Burial will be in Trinity Cemetery. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.