Obituary of David Lawrence Mazza

David Lawrence Mazza, age 71, of Trumbull, devoted husband of Deborah Simpkins Mazza and loving father of Elizabeth Mazza, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2014 at his home. Born on May 5, 1942 in Stamford, he was the son of the late Dominic ("Happy") and Clara DAndrea Mazza. He was awarded his bachelor's degree from Carroll College and went on to receive two master's degrees, a MA in History from Fordham University and MA in Educational Administration from University of Bridgeport. Always in pursuit of knowledge, David went on to receive his Ph.D. in American History from St. Johns University. Dr. Mazza taught high school history in Stamford for 35 years and, upon retiring became an adjunct professor for Norwalk Community College. Dr. Mazza, ever the athlete and sports enthusiast, played and then coached basketball and baseball. Wanting to share his love of team sports Dr. Mazza founded and then became the Athletic Director of the sports program at UCONN Stamford. He will be fondly remembered as a dedicated teacher, professor, coach, mentor and friend. Dr. Mazza was always there to give encouraging words and a helping hand. He touched the lives of countless students, many of whom became his friends and continued to visit him until his death. Above all else, he treasured the time he spent with his family. In recent years, he looked forward to his weekly visits with his grandchildren. He was a devoted husband, father, brother, uncle and grandfather who will be deeply missed by all who knew him. In addition to his loving wife of 42 years, Deborah, survivors include a loving daughter, Elizabeth Mazza and her husband Christopher Quinn of Maplewood, NJ, two adored grandchildren, Liam and Maggie; a dedicated sister, Sister Mary Mazza, CND of Athens, NY, nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by a sister, Anne Pirone. Funeral Information Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, January 22, 2014 at 10:30 a.m. from the Abriola Parkview Funeral Home, 419 White Plains Road, Trumbull, and at 11:30 a.m. in St. Stephens Church, 6948 Main St., Trumbull for a Mass of Christian Burial. All are welcome. Interment will be held privately. Friends may greet the family on Tuesday from 4-8 p.m. at the funeral home. Donations Information In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation, 230 East Ohio Street, Suite 304, Chicago, IL 60611.