Eleanor Irene Rizzo, 94, born January 23,1924 peacefully passed away on December 15, 2018. She was the daughter of James (Alphonse) and Rose Casabura. Born in Manhattan New York she grew up on the family farm in Milton, with her seven brothers and sisters. She took over the family duties at a young age when her mother passed.
She was married to the love of her life Thomas Rizzo for 68 years. They married on December 1, 1946 and settled in Highland, and raised their three children. She worked at the Hedges Restaurant for many years creating a network of longtime friends. She also worked as a school bus driver for the Highland School District and as a seamstress for Felix DeFelice. She was a member of the American Legion Post 193 Ladies Auxiliary, Red Hats and sang in the choir at Sacred Heart Church in Esopus, New York.
Her family meant the world to her and loved family gatherings, entertaining and parties to which she was known to have her Apple Strudel and Manicotti. She loved to Swing dance, travel with the family camper, play Skip-Bo and Canasta.
She was predeceased by her husband Thomas, siblings Vincent, Marion, Joseph, grandson Shane and daughter-in-law Candace. She is survived by her brother James Casabura and wife Isabel, sisters Alice Abbott and Jeanie Caruso, her three children Thomas Rizzo, Donna Rizzo and Riva Nelson. Her eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held at the Michael Torsone Memorial Funeral Home, Inc., on Thursday, December 20, from 2 – 4 p.m. and 7 – 9 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, December 21, at Sacred Heart Church, Esopus, New York at 10 a.m. followed by interment at Highland Cemetery. In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to St. Judes Childrens Hospital.