DIANE E. RIZZO

In 1998 an optimistic woman by the name of Diane E. Rizzo died of breast cancer at the age of 53. She touched the lives of all the people around her with her warm and gentle personality. Everyone who knew her loved her. She was open-minded, generous, caring supportive, and most of all, a friend to everyone. She always did for others, expecting nothing in return.

She had a passion for collecting stamps, Annalee dolls, and antiques. She also loved to restore old furniture. But more importantly, she loved to collect and restore friendships.

A native of the Syracuse area, Diane became a hairdresser after graduating from high school. She waitressed at the Holiday Inn downtown for many years. She has two children from her first marriage, Deanna Moran and Billy Moran Rizzo. Billy died in a tragic accident at the age of 19. Diane remarried Phil Rizzo and they were blessed with their daughter Renee.

Diane was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 42. After many months of radiation, chemotherapy and a mastectomy, she was in remission. She was worry free for seven years. But then her cancer returned and spread to her lungs. The upper lobe of her right lung was removed. Diane died on May 31, 1998 at home with her family.

Throughout her ordeal, Diane always tried to see the bright side of things. Shortly after her diagnosis she became very active in local support groups raising money and awareness. Diane and Carol Baldwin became fast friends as they both faced their fears. They were as close as sisters. They had one goal in mind, to find a cure for breast cancer. She gave generously of herself and made the lives of the people around her better. Before her imminent death, she would always greet her company with a smile instead of tears. Truly a one-of-a-kind, unforgettable woman. Diane, we miss you.