RONALD W. WACKROW

WACKROW, Ronald W. Visionary Real Estate Developer Behind Landmark Hospitality Projects, Dies at 77 Boston, Massachusetts - May 20, 2025- Ronald Wesley Wackrow, a respected real estate developer and the driving force behind some of the most iconic hotel and mixed-use developments in the country, passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 77. Born in 1947 in Somerville, Massachusetts, Ron's life was built on honesty, hard work, and a common-sense approach to problem solving. A Northeast Institute graduate with a focus on Mechanical Engineering, his projects were marked by a balance of bold design and utility, always "on-time and on-budget." Prior to his retirement in 2020, Ron served as Executive Vice President at Related Companies, where he led the firm's groundbreaking efforts to develop the Hudson Yards project in New York City, one of the largest urban development projects in U.S. history. During his career at Related, Ron's development portfolio included iconic locations such as The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas Casino and Resort, The Equinox Hotel brand, the W New York – Union Square Hotel, Mandarin Oriental at Time Warner Center, and W South Beach Hotel. His impact extended beyond hospitality into commercial real estate, with notable projects such as the World Market Center in Las Vegas. Before Related, Ron was Senior Vice President and Director of Development and Project Coordination for ITT Sheraton Corporation, where he developed and opened hundreds of hotels in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, and is recognized for the full restoration of the St. Regis Hotel in New York City. Ron also played a key role in introducing the W Hotels brand. Ron was also a committed family man and much loved among friends and neighbors at this home on Cape Cod. He was at his happiest with Jean, his wife of 56 years, by his side. Without her, he would admit, none of his success would be possible. He is survived by his beloved wife, Jean. He is also survived by his children: Jonathan, Thomas, and Paul; and his daughters-in-law, Jocelyn and Kathleen. Ron was the proud grandfather of five grandchildren: Hunter, Carter, Taylor, James, and Owen, who brought him immense joy. He is also survived by his loving sisters Irene (Bunny) and Judith (Judy). Visiting Hours are scheduled for the Doane Beal & Ames Funeral Home, located at 160 West Main St., HYANNIS, MA 02601, on Tuesday, May 27, from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM. A Funeral Service will be held on the same day at Our Lady of Victory Parish, 230 S. Main St., Centerville, MA 02632, at 11:00 AM. The Service will also be livestreamed at https://olvparish.org/livestream In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Canine Companions https://canine.org/ March of Dimes https://www.marchofdimes.org and Yarmouth Food Pantry https://yarmouthfoodpantry.org in Ron's memory.