Prominent CFS volunteer Vince Cozzitorto is remembered as being a family man
Vince Cozzitorto packed a lot into one lifetime, but he will be remembered most for his dedication to helping others.
SA News
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Dedicated One Tree Hill fire brigade volunteer of 46 years Vincenzo “Vince” Cozzitorto has been farewelled with a guard of honour.
The 73-year-old passed away on December 17, 2023 surrounded by his family.
He had ongoing health issues and died after he was hospitalised with a lung infection.
He leaves behind his wife Linda, three children Jason, Adam and Amanda as well as eight grandchildren Maddison, Angus, Zachary, Adam, Jacob, Samuel, Tahlia and Mila.
Daughter Amanda Parsons said her dad dedicated his life to the service of others.
“Dad fought hard to enter this world and he continued that fighting spirit throughout his 73 years,” Ms Parsons said.
When Mr Cozzitorto was born in Italy on November 9, 1950, he entered the world blue and not breathing.
He was placed in a blanket at the end of a bed, presumed dead, while doctors attended to his mother.
His father came to kiss his unresponsive son on the forehead and moments later Mr Cozzitorto began to cry.
Mr Cozzitorto worked as a mechanic and builder, building houses and schools in the APY Lands, before opening his own business tree felling.
“He was a true family man and loved nothing more than to be surrounded by his immediate and extended family,” Ms Parsons said.
“He was a valued friend to many and someone you could confide in at times of need and sadness, he always seemed to know what to say.”
He was also a dedicated Country Fire Service life member having begun volunteering in 1977 with the One Tree Hill fire brigade.
“Dad built strong community connections and forged wonderful friendships,” Ms Parsons said.
“I remember the siren being on our property and when it went off at all hours of the night, dad would be racing down the hallway pulling on his overalls as he ran out the door.
“That commitment to the community has been passed on through the generations with two of his grandsons, Adam and Jacob becoming CFS members last year.”
Ms Parsons said her dad made memories to last a lifetime, many of which involved cooking with his family.
“All the grandchildren have fond memories of picking grapes in the grape vines, crushing the grapes to make wine,” she said.
“One year dad even got the grandkids to do a foot stomp crush.
“He has taught them all to make fresh pasta and make Italian sausage. These are traditions and memories that they will also be able to pass on to their children.”
Ms Parsons said her dad had started early preparations for his Christmas signature dish – eggplant parmigiana – when he fell ill and was taken to hospital.
“Mum had to finish it off so we could have it for dinner Christmas Day,” she said.
“I must say I think it was his best one ever.”
Mr Cozzitorto was an incredible cook. Ms Parsons said he was “forever bragging about taking out first prize in an arancini ball competition”.
Mr Cozzitorto’s fellow CFS volunteer Bevis Dixon called it a privilege to speak about him.
“When you were in a fire truck and Vince was driving, you knew you were in safe hands,” Mr Dixon said.
“In 1991 Vince accepted the position of captain, a position he held for nine years.
“Our captain is not a position to be taken lightly … it requires a huge commitment and dedication to CFS … he was an excellent captain.
“He became a captain at a time when the brigade was going through a period of internal issues which caused instability to the members.
“He was able to rebuild the brigade to an effective team using his leadership skills.
“The members respect his leadership and fairness and he was very highly regarded in the wider CFS community.”
Mr Cozzitorto is a lifetime member of the One Tree Hill CFS.
“Vince’s name lives on in the fire station, his name appears three times on the honour board, one for captain, one for president and one for life member.
“Rest in peace Vince, your duty is complete.”
Members of the One Tree Hill CFS Brigade along with the Para Group and SA CFS Region 2 formed a guard of honour at Mr Cozzitorto’s funeral that was attended by about 450 people on Wednesday at Harrison Funerals in Ridge Haven.
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