John Anthony Rizzi II, 53, of Bristol passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 25. Born August 10, 1968, and raised in Bristol, “Johnny” was a loving and gentle soul. He attended Bristol Central High School where he was a member of the wrestling team. He went on to graduate Tunxis Community College; the first of his family to earn a degree.

Johnny spent his younger adult years as a fitness buff. He earned a brown belt in Tae Kwon Do, and he completed his first triathlon. He loved to hike, backpack, and walk the trails, among his favorites, the Metacomet and Appalachian trails. He was an avid music lover and he could often be seen playing his sitar or acoustic guitar.

He was a member of the chess club where he excelled in competitive match play. He loved Astronomy, and would explain in detail all about Quasars, Pulsars, and neutron stars to any captive audience.  A kind and generous person who loved animals, he would end up taking in many strays. His favorite among them, a cat named Xena. John will always be remembered for his kind and compassionate spirit.

In addition to his father, John Rizzi Sr., John is survived by his sister, Lisa Baine and her husband Chris of Colchester; his brother: Kevin Rizzi, and Teresa Calkins of New Britain; his most favorite nephew: Stephen Govea of Bristol; his good friend Chris Pellerin; along with a host of cousins and friends. He was predeceased by his mother, Patricia Rizzi.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, May 1, from 2 to 4 p.m. at Funk Funeral Home, 35 Bellevue Ave., Bristol. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home on Monday May 2, beginning with a prayer service at 10 a.m. and a burial to follow at St. Joseph Cemetery, Bristol.

Please visit John’s memorial website at www.FunkFuneralHome.com.

Fly high Rocket Man!