Obituary of Michael Lovezolla

Michael Lovezzola, MD Passed peacefully in his sleep July 13, 2012, after a courageous battle with leukemia. He was born September 11, 1923, in Boston, MA. Dad always said he was lucky to have wonderful parents, Michael and Theresa (Gnecco) Lovezzola, also born in Boston. In the early 187's, his grandparents were among the earliest Italian immigrants to Boston. Mike first attended St. Lazarus Catholic Elementary School, followed by Boston Latin High School. He then went to Harvard at age 16. Mike graduated cum Laude from Harvard and then received his M.D. from Tufts Medical School. During the Korean conflict, he was the Chief Surgeon at McChord Air Force Base. There he met Lt. Norma Jacobson, and they were married at McChord Chapel in 1953. Mike worked as a civilian surgeon in the Spokane Veterans Hospital from 1955 to 1966. He moved to Puyallup, where he opened his private practice. Dr. Lovezzola was the first surgeon in Puyallup. He was a member of the Tacoma Surgical Club and the North Pacific Surgical Association, and published, New England Journal of Medicine. His kind, gentle and patient manner with everyone he encountered earned him the nickname of "Dr. Love." He retired in 1989. Mike and Norma enjoyed hiking on Mt. Rainier and fishing in Canada. He also loved camping with his family. Mike played the clarinet and was a member of the Puyallup Community Band for over 22 years. Even this year, he found enjoyment working in his large garden, and visiting his favorite place, lake Quinault. Dad was a man of strong faith, and he was blessed with many dear friends at his parish, All Saints Catholic Church. He was also lucky to have very good neighbors, and his "coffee buddies" at the local McDonalds. He is preceded in death by his wife, Norma; his dear sister, Jean Mongiello. and his parents. He is survived by his two daughters, Sue (Jim) Parrish of Walla Walla, and Mary (Bob) Champion of Mukilteo. He also leaves three grandchildren; Amy (Kevin) Parrish of Boise, Ben Parrish of Walla Walla, and Sally (Patrick) Steinman of Eugene. He also was lucky enough to enjoy four great grandsons: Jack, Keeton, Riley and Max. He is also survived by his loving brother and best friend, Robert (Nancy) Lovezzola of Needham, MA., as well as many caring nieces, nephews, and cousins in the Boston area. The passing of his gentle and kind spirit is a great loss for all of us, but a wonderful addition to heaven. Services will be held at All Saints Catholic Church, Puyallup, on Friday, July 20, at 11:00. A reception will follow immediately in the parish hall. The family would like to express our thanks for the loving care he received by Dr. McCroskey, Dr. Goldberg, their great staff, and all the wonderful staff at the infusion center. Donations may be made to Cascade Regional Blood Services, 205 15th Ave. S.W., Puyallup.