Dorothy Izzo, the 100‑year‑old mother of Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo, died on Tuesday, May 19, just six days after celebrating her centennial birthday. Her passing was confirmed by family members who said she spent her final days near relatives in Appleton, Wisconsin.
Born on May 13, 1926, in Norway, Michigan, she grew up in a close‑knit Midwestern community before moving to Chicago to earn a nursing degree. The training she received there set the stage for a career devoted to caring for others.
After completing her education, Dorothy returned to Michigan and worked as a registered nurse at the Veterans Hospital in Iron Mountain. For many years she tended to veterans, earning a reputation for compassion and professionalism that lingered long after her shifts ended.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, she never missed a chance to watch a game involving her son or grandchildren. Whether cheering from the stands or from the living room couch, her enthusiasm was contagious, and she often filled family gatherings with lively commentary about the action on the court.
A Legacy of Care and Cheer
Tom Izzo has frequently spoken about his mother’s influence on his own philosophy, crediting her with teaching him the value of perseverance and humility. In a recent broadcast, he light‑heartedly joked about her, a moment that underscored both his affection and the deep bond they shared. Friends and colleagues remember Dorothy not only for her professional achievements but also for the warmth she brought to every corner of her family’s life.