Westport lost one of its real good guys yesterday.
John Izzo — former 3rd selectman, RTM member, Staples Class of 1961 graduate and longtime voice for what he believed was best for his longtime home town — died at Norwalk Hospital. He was 71.
John Izzo
Izzo ran for 1st selectman as a Republican in 2001, but lost to Democrat Diane Farrell. Four years later he beat Gavin Anderson in a primary, but was defeated in the general election by Gordon Joseloff.
In typical Izzo fashion, he showed up that night at Democratic headquarters — with a bottle of Champagne for the victor.
In 2009 he ran again for 1st selectman, this time as an independent. Joseloff retained office.
Izzo served as co-grand marshal of the 2008 Festival Italiano parade. Sharing the honors: his brothers AJ, Butch and Jimmy. (He had 9 other siblings.)
1st Selectman Jim Marpe cited Izzo’s “love for and commitment to Westport.” He added:
John was personable, outgoing, and gregarious. He was a passionate golfer who loved playing at Longshore or relaxing at Compo Beach. But mostly, he loved his wife and his family. He will certainly be missed.
I last saw John Izzo a few months ago. He was at the beach, enjoying the food, the weather, the scene — and the town he loved and served, so long and well.
(Visitation hours are Tuesday, March 17, 4-8 pm at the Harding Funeral Home, 210 Post Road East. A service will be held Wednesday, March 18, 10:30 am at Assumption Church, 98 Riverside Avenue. Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, 4899 Belfort Road, Suite 300, Jacksonville, FL 32256. To leave online condolences, click here.)
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