David R. Nizzardi
August 28, 1953 – March 14, 2025

David Nizzardi, a beloved cousin and devoted friend to many, passed away peacefully on March 14, 2025, at the age of 71. Born to the late Alex and Carol (DeNota) Nizzardi, David was preceded in death by his brother Kevin. He is survived by cousins Aaron DeAngelis, Allegra Hedges, Anthony Stitt, Isabella DeAngelis, Anna DeAngelis, Ava Hedges and Natalia Stitt, and a godson, Justin Hedges.

David, who grew up in South Philadelphia, graduated from Central High School and then attended Pierce Junior College. He went onto a successful career in publishing, working for the Philadelphia Bulletin, the Philadelphia Business Journal and several trade publications.

David was known for his big personality that would shine brightest on the dance floor at D’Angelo’s Ristorante in Rittenhouse Square. But his biggest and best quality was his heart. For many years, he gave a monthly donation to wounded veterans. He was willing to help any friend at a moment’s notice. And his standard greeting for family members was a warm, loving embrace.

As a teenager, David fell in love with playing the electric guitar and excelled at it. He eventually saved up enough money to buy his pride and joy: a gorgeous white Fender Telecaster.  He played professionally, performing with bands in the Philadelphia area, and he and his band recorded an Italian rock single that played overseas in Italy.

Back in 1992, David even made a national TV appearance as a contestant on the game show “Wheel of Fortune.” He won a couple thousand dollars after solving an apropos puzzle: “A Brief Interlude of Music.”

To the confusion of many, David, a born and bred Philly guy, passionately rooted for the Chicago Bears and Chicago Cubs. A prized possession was his Bears jacket that he most proudly wore around Eagles fans. And only days before his passing, he was sporting a Cubs jersey while enjoying a delicious Italian sandwich that his dear friend Henry brought to him.

In his later years, it was clear what David cherished most: his friends, many of whom he had known and loved for decades. His friendship with Joe Devine went back more than 70 years when the two met as babies. He and his childhood pals routinely held “reunions” at the same South Philly street corner that they hung out 40-plus years earlier. And it was the guys at the corner who knew what made David such an invaluable friend — his loyalty.

Please join family and friends on Wednesday, March 26 at 11:30 a.m. for David’s graveside memorial at Saints Peter and Paul Cemetery in Springfield, Pennsylvania. A luncheon celebrating David’s life will follow at Anthony’s Ristorante at 865 West Springfield Road, Springfield, PA 19064.