Karla Boyle
A note from Pat...
Who was the man Philip J. Pizzi, with whom I spent almost thirty years of my life?
My husband wore many hats. As a devoted son, he helped work on the family ranch while in high school. After graduation he heard the call of duty, and in 1962 joined the United States Air Force, and fell in love with a career that took him around the world.
Phil lived by a plain and simple creed: give each and every endeavor- 110%! He was recognized as an expert in the field of Radar, Communications, and Weapons. He was classified as an expert Marksman, bringing multiple shooting competitions awards back to his squadron.
From Airman on, he received recognition for his expertise, and received multiple commendations and awards. While working his way up to a Chief Master Sergeant he received the Air Force Commendation Medal for meritorious service from July 1965 to December 1968. Twice he was the recipient of Department of the Air Force Achievement Medal for Outstanding Achievement. On retirement he received a Certificate of Appreciation for Service in the Armed Forces from President Bill Clinton. Between active duty, various Air National Guard placements, and the Air Force Reserves he gave 42 years to his first love.
From the moment he ask me to share his life in 1987, I knew I had found my white knight with all the protective armor. Phil was always a loving, thoughtful and generous man. Who encouraged and supported me in returning to school to become a Holistic Nutritionist; and later pushed me to spend time expressing my ideas in writing.
My father never thought of him as a son in law, but always as a devoted friend and later a loving care giver. He stepped into the shoes of being dad, and helped guide my teenage daughter to a successful career, and to be a loving responsible parent. His favorite role however was being Papa; holding, playing and sharing his knowledge from infancy to adulthood with his three grandsons. Family time was special, if the boys were at the house you would find them snuggling in his arms, talking about their school activities, playing games or working on a family project.
Each of our pets spent hundreds of hours snuggled in his arms and knew they had it made, especially our little girl Ginger. He was the best friend any animal could ever have.
His demand for perfection was seen at home in his manicured lawns, his glistening and sky blue swimming pool, finely tuned vehicles and of course his favorite toys which were kept in exceptional condition.
Phil was my lover, partner and best friend. We could talk about anything. We accomplished many of our goals. Our family will go on with our lives and accomplish our new personal goals, because that is what he would want. We will make new friends, and eventually rebuild our lives with happy events; but to say we will miss him is a grievous understatement.
Rest in peace my darling. You will be forever loved and missed, by your family and friends.