Michael J. Rizak

Michael J. Rizak, age 79, of Newark, DE, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 22, 2017 with his loving family by his side.

Born and raised in Penn Hills, PA, Mike was the son of the late Michael and Marie Rizak. He was a graduate of Penn Hills High School Class of 1956. Shortly after graduation, Mike met the love of his life and future wife, Leah, in Latrobe. Before retiring in 1998, Mike was an Instrument Engineering Designer for DuPont for over 26 years. Through his work with DuPont, Mike and Leah had enjoyed moving around a bit, especially with their time spent in San Francisco. He was a member of the ISA, as well as the past president of the Green Valley Civic Association.

In his spare time, Mike could fix anything and loved working on cars. He enjoyed hunting with his son and extended family back in Pennsylvania where he was raised. For many years, every summer was spent spending time at the beach as a family. In his younger years, Mike was quite the daredevil. He loved racing speed boats on the Allegheny River, racing hot rods and riding his motorcycle. Mike was also a diehard Pittsburgh Steelers, Pirates and Penguins fan.

Mike will be remembered for his very kind and generous heart. Although he was a quiet and reserved man, he was always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Christiana Hospital and Seasons Hospice at Christiana for their compassion and care of Mike during his illness.

Mike is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Leah E. (Nordstrom) Rizak; his children, Elise M. Pragg, M. Jeffrey Rizak and Loreen L. Hayes; his grandchildren, Kristin Kemplen, Ben Pragg, T.J., Jasen and Mallory J. Rizak, Christopher Hayes and Rachel Evans; his great granddaughter, Keira Mae Caldwell; and his sisters, Marie E. Damask and Barbara Eberle (Chuck); as well as many nieces and nephews.

Family and friends may visit on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 from 10:00 to 10:45 AM at St. Catherine of Siena Church, 2503 Centerville Rd., Wilmington, DE 19808, where a Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at All Saints Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Catherine of Siena Church or the charity on the donor’s choice. 

 Service Information