Albert L. Pizzica, neonatologist, founder of a company

Albert L. Pizzica, 65, of Wayne, a clinical neonatologist for more than three decades who founded a medical company, died Saturday, Dec. 14, of colon cancer at his home.

Dr. Pizzica earned a bachelor's degree in biology from St. Joseph's University in 1970 and a doctor of osteopathy in medicine from the University of Osteopathic Medicine and Surgery in Iowa in 1973.

He served an internship at Suburban General Hospital in Norristown and a pediatric residency at Mercy Catholic Medical Center. He was a neonatology fellow at Thomas Jefferson University.

Dr. Pizzica was assistant director of nurseries at Hahnemann University Hospital from 1978 to 1981, and associate neonatologist from 1978 to 1987.

At various times he also was on staff in the neonatal units of Crozer-Chester Medical Center, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Episcopal Hospital, Chestnut Hill Hospital, and St. Christopher's Hospital for Children.

He had various faculty appointments, and was an active researcher and writer in his field.

After leaving full-time clinical practice in 2009, Dr. Pizzica in 2011 started Pizzica Health Systems, which operates primary-care offices for pediatric and newborn patients in Philadelphia. He was chief medical officer.

A past president of the National Perinatal Association, he was given its highest honor in 2010, the Stan Graven Award, for lifelong contributions to the field.

"He was someone who lived life to the fullest and never wasted a moment's time," said his wife, the former Susan Barclay.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by sons Albert J., Paul L., Thomas F., David B., and Christopher B.; daughter Allison M.; and five grandchildren.

Calling hours are 3 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 19, at the Donohue Funeral Home, 3300 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square. A memorial service will be held in January. Interment is private.

Donations may be made to the Kimmel Cancer Center, 233 S. 10th St., Philadelphia 19107.

610-313-8102