Debra Pizzuto passed away on July 8, 2018 in Eureka.

Debra was born on August 22, 1957, to Larry and Judy Pizzuto. She was preceded in death by her grandparents Earl and Peggy Kooyman and Tony and Elsie Pizzuto. Her father, Larry Pizzuto, passed away just a week after her.

Debra is survived by her mother, Judy Pizzuto; her sister, Sherry Nissen (Jeff); her brother, Dan Pizzuto (Jenice); uncles and aunts including Terry and Gayle Pizzuto, Les Kooyman, and Wally Schwarz; nephews and nieces Kris Morse (Natalie), Michael Pizzuto, and Angela Combs (Sean); great-nieces Brielle and Lyla as well as several cousins and many dear friends.

As a young girl, Debra learned how to sew, something she and her mother both enjoyed. She became an accomplished seamstress and created many of her own clothes. She also liked crocheting, knitting, and quilting. Many of her friends and family members were the joyous recipients of blankets, quilts, potholders etc.

Physical fitness was also a passion in Debra’s life. She participated in dance classes for many years and performed in several local productions, including The Nutcracker on several occasions. In addition, she completed multiple ½ marathons.

Education was also an important aspect throughout Debra’s life. She acquired her Bachelor’s degree from Humboldt State University then returned to HSU to complete her master’s degree. Soon after, she went to work in Hoopa, an endeavor that was very important to her. Seeing others complete their personal and educational goals brought her great joy.

If you’d like to do something to honor Debra’s life, you may give to the charity of your choice in her name.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Debra Pizzuto’s family. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here.