Obituary for Thomas Fizzano – Delaware County, PA

Thomas Anthony Fizzano

OBITUARY

Business owner and patriarch of prominent Delco family dies at age 91 Longtime Delaware County business owner and patriarch of the Fizzano family, Thomas Anthony Fizzano, died peacefully on August 8, 2024 at the age of 91. Revered by all who knew him, Fizzano's life was a living mosaic of experiences and accomplishments, a blend of fate and determination, devotion to family, wisdom and compassion. Thomas Anthony Fizzano, “Tom,” was born in Leiperville, Ridley Township, Delaware County in 1932 to Joseph and Carmela “Millie” Fizzano (Carzo). A devoted and loving son, Tom and his younger brother Joe, “Champ,” learned the value of hard work at a young age. They spent countless hours helping out at their mother's grocery store on Miller Street in Crum Lynne, where they not only honed their business skills but also developed a deep appreciation for community and service. Tom's formal education began at Saint Rose of Lima School, where the seeds of his remarkable spirit were planted. He later graduated from Ridley High School in 1950 as a formidable football tackle under legendary coach Phil Marion. But Fizzano was more than just a player; he immersed himself in the game, mastered its intricacies and developed a deep understanding of strategy, teamwork, perseverance and work ethic. His passion and talent propelled him forward, earning him an athletic scholarship to Pennsylvania Military College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in business administration. At PMC, Fizzano not only honed his football skills but made lifelong friendships on the team and nurtured his love of the sport, culminating in an unforgettable undefeated season his senior year. After graduating in 1955, Fizzano answered the call of duty and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army. After completing basic training, he was assigned to the 13th Infantry Regiment and stationed in Germany, where he served in the dual role of public relations officer and coach of the regiment's football team, the “Vicksburgers.” Tom coached several outstanding college players, including several players destined for professional football. Under his leadership, the team completed an undefeated regular season and made it to the European Championships. Fizzano earned a reputation for thorough and imaginative plays, and his coaching style garnered admiration and praise from his players, leaving an immeasurable influence that extended far beyond the field. One of his players, Dick Syzmanski, a former All-American at Notre Dame and later a Baltimore Colt, described Fizzano as a “natural leader on and off the field.” After refusing repeated requests from his superiors to devote his life to the military and politely declining an FBI enlistment, Fizzano returned to Delaware County in 1957, where he joined another FBI agency — Fizzano Brothers, Inc. — the thriving concrete block manufacturer his father, Joe, and uncles founded in 1935. He dedicated his professional life to the success and growth of the company, which grew from a single block mold to one producing up to 80,000 bricks a day. Fizzano was proud when his namesake son, Tom, joined him in the '90s and continued the family tradition. He faithfully showed up at his office for decades until the pandemic prevented him from doing so at age 88. He was beloved by his coworkers, some of whom described him simply as “the nicest man they've ever met.” Those who worked for him often sought his advice on personal matters and his benevolence, knowing that he would respect their confidential information and offer them unfailing support, helping them in any way he could. An avid Thoroughbred horse fan, Fizzano enjoyed his own Thoroughbreds for many seasons and spent memorable afternoons at the races with family and friends. His passion for the sport was surpassed only by his love of card games, where he continued to showcase his skill and competitive spirit until just weeks before his death. Whether it was poker, blackjack, or a friendly round of gin, Tom enjoyed the camaraderie and connections made with each hand dealt. The card game became a cherished family tradition, creating bonds that will forever resonate in the hearts of those who enjoyed playing with him. Fizzano brought a quiet charm and cultured presence to every gathering, effortlessly lighting up the room with his warmth. Known for his compelling storytelling, he would enchant family and friends over dinner at his favorite restaurants with stories from his life, weaving memories into narratives that captivated all. His textured, gravelly voice was iconic and unmistakable. Fizzano spoke softly with a deep, rasping tone that was both commanding and familiar, exuding an aura of authority and dignity and drawing the listener in with each word. His voice contained a mixture of weariness and wisdom that inspired justifiable respect and sometimes raised amusing questions about whether or not his Godfather-like tone was his “real” voice. Tom was keenly interested in current events and politics, and was a trusted confidant of friends serving in Republican leadership at the state and local levels. Fizzano's wisdom and guidance were sought after, and his quiet but effective influence was felt in policy decisions and campaigns, including the numerous successful local and statewide campaigns of his beloved daughter, the Honorable Christine Fizzano Cannon, now a Pennsylvania appellate judge. Fizzano often said the happiest day of his life was the day he married his beloved wife of 61 years, Christine B. Fizzano (Myers). He understood the value of true love and realized that their union would open up countless opportunities for joy – and it did. Together they traveled the world, made lasting friendships, raised and loved two wonderful, loving children, Tom (Kelli) and Christine Fizzano Cannon (Mark), and spent much time with their five beloved grandchildren, Thomas, Mirabel, Ethan, Luke and Alexandra. Tom inspired his children and grandchildren to embrace life with humility and toughness, and always encouraged them to uphold honor and grace. He was never bitter or had time to criticize others, and he was so strong that nothing could ever disturb his peace of mind. When asked what he attributed his longevity to, Fizzano pointed to his unwavering will to be there for his family, his belief in living a meaningful life, and his daily prayerful gratitude for the gift of another day. Fizzano was a man who commanded great respect and admiration from all who had the pleasure of knowing him, and we will miss him deeply. He deeply appreciated the love and support of his friends and family throughout his life who enriched his path. In keeping with his wishes, the funeral and memorial service will be private. Donations may be made to Shriners Children's Hospital – Philadelphia (shrinerschildrens.org) and the Wounded Warriors Project (support.woundedwarriorproject.org). Arrangements are by Rigby Harting & Hagan Funeral Home. www.haganfuneralhome.com