Edward Stizza

Edward Domenick Stizza, son of Nunzio and Philomena Stizza, passed away on Feb. 6, 2013 in Fountain Hills. He was born in 1938 in Youngstown, Ohio.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Laura, of 53 years; his three children, Ed Jr., Michelle and Jeff Stizza along with his wife Tiffney; and grandsons, Anthony and Jackson.

Ed graduated from Youngstown State University in 1960, remaining active throughout his lifetime as a founding member of the Arizona Chapter of the Youngstown State University Alumni Association and the Alpha Phi Delta Fraternity Alumni Association.

He spent the early years of his professional career as an art teacher and later turned his passion for art into opening his own studio and gallery in Fremont, Ohio.

Ed had an extensive career in food management for a number of companies and owned and operated several restaurants. He retired from Fort McDowell Casino after 12 years of service in the training and development department.

Ed’s greatest passion was serving others. While in college, Ed began a lifelong career of playing Santa Claus, performing the role for disabled and underprivileged children as well as in holiday parades and other charity fundraisers.

Ed was a 42-year member of Kiwanis International, serving as lieutenant governor in Michigan and twice as club president in Michigan and Arizona. He was recognized by Kiwanis International and honored with the Legion of Honor Award. He created the first Rochester Adams High School Key Club in Rochester Hills, Mich.

Ed was diagnosed with kidney disease and was on dialysis for five years. During this time, he used his boundless energy to maintain a full work schedule and become a tireless advocate for dialysis patients. He created the annual Fountain Hills Dialysis Walk and served as a DaVita Patient Citizens’ Patient Ambassador.

Ed was recognized in the Congressional Record and honored with the first DPC Hero Award for making a difference in people’s lives.

In addition to his community work, Ed enjoyed traveling with his wife Laura, driving his VW Beetle, photography, music, art, cooking and spending time with his grandchildren.

Ed will always be remembered for the love he had for his family, friends and community.