Eric Spizzirri of Downingtown

1945-2017

Bum knees and all, former athlete and lifetime sports fan, Eric Spizzirri of Downingtown completed his earthly race on Friday, April 28th. His favorite cheering section, beloved wife, Laura Dillon, and daughters Erica Spizzirri of Glenside, PA and Dina Spizzirri Raihall of West Chester were there at the finish line with him. Eric found joy in his 22-year marriage to Laura and treasured the simple things cooking for her, gardening, sharing laughter and being together. His love for his family was undeniable and that love continues to be felt by all who knew him.

Born August 26, 1945 in South Philadelphia, Eric was preceded in death by his parents Vito and Carmela Spizzirri and his sister in law Concetta Spizzirri. A valued member of the Red Raiders football team, he graduated from Radnor High School in 1963 and went on to play football at Northern Michigan University in Marquette and later served in the Army Reserves.

Residing in Chester County for most of his life, his love of sports and working with kids led him to becoming a Big Brother, LAFA and WBYA coach, avid racquetball and softball player, but his greatest joy was raucously rooting for his daughters and grandchildren Cate and Will at their various sports events.

Eric had a long career in the mortgage and title business that began in the early 1970s searching titles in the Chester County Courthouse. Later in life, Eric enjoyed restoring antiques, creating a variety of gourmet meals, gardening and amazing those who were fortunate enough to view his accomplished artwork.

Fondly remembered and survived by his loving wife, daughters, grandchildren, brother Peter of Havertown, PA, both the Spizzirri and Dillon families and countless friends. Eric will also be greatly missed by the mother of his daughters, Judith Pedrick.

The family invites friends to join them in a celebration of life for Papa E on the deck of The Desmond Hotel on Thursday, May 11th, from 5-8pm – dinner provided after short service at 6pm. The entire family would like to thank the staff of the Neighborhood Hospice of West Chester for their compassionate care and truly genuine concern. In lieu of flowers, gifts in Eric’s memory are being collected to furnish a bench at Neighborhood Hospice in his honor.

For more information, visit gofundme.com/big-Ebench or email ericaspizzirri@gmail.com.