Maurice Michael Rizzo, III

Maurice Michael Rizzo III, known to all as Moe, passed away unexpectedly on February 9, 2026, in Seattle, Washington. Born on October 22, 1981, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Moe possessed a remarkable intellect, quick humor, and generous heart. A self-described “walking almanac” of pop culture, he carried encyclopedic knowledge of music, movies, and sports—especially his beloved Pittsburgh Steelers. He took deep pride in his Italian heritage and found special joy in sharing his grandmother’s sauce with family and friends.

A graduate of Bishop McGuinness High School, Class of 2000, Moe excelled in art during his teenage years. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Oklahoma and later received his nursing degree from Lake Washington Institute of Technology. He discovered his true calling in nursing, where his compassion and attentive care earned him consistent recognition from patients and colleagues alike. Outside of his profession, music remained his lifelong passion. Performing as DJ Stoic, he became a respected figure in the Oklahoma electronic music scene, spinning drum and bass and forming many enduring friendships.

Above all, fatherhood defined Moe’s life. His greatest love and proudest achievement was his son, William “Liam” Thomas Rizzo. The two shared a special bond, whether exploring the world of Pokémon or discovering new interests together. Moe’s enthusiasm for his son’s life brought him profound happiness.

He is survived by his son Liam; his sister Sarah Mann and her daughter Isabella “Bella”; his mother Roxana Rizzo; his father Maurice Rizzo Jr. and partner Ela Casteel; and many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. Moe held a deep affection for animals, especially dogs, and is survived by his beloved Lola. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Margaret “Nunna” and Maurice “Pappy” Rizzo Sr., maternal grandparents Imogene and Earl Childress, uncle Jeffrey Childress, aunts Nancy Verge Rizzo and Joan McCord, and his loyal dog of fifteen years, Lucy.