Peter J. Dolara

1937 - 2025

Peter J. Dolara

December 22, 1937 - November 15, 2025

Miami, Florida - With profound sadness we announce the passing of Peter J. Dolara, a visionary leader, a humble mentor, a dedicated community partner, husband, father, grandfather and a tireless champion of the Miami region and Latin American aviation. His legacy will resonate across the skies of South Florida, the corridors of the airline industry, and the hearts of the many lives he touched.

Peter's journey with American Airlines began in 1971, where his ambition, integrity and positive spirit propelled him through a distinguished 40-plus year career. And, an incredible journey it was, since he lived his early life in an orphanage in Uruguay where he was born.

His journey embodies the American dream. Arriving in the U.S. at 23 years of age he rose through the ranks at the airline from cleaning aircraft to sitting on the company's Executive Committee.

From the earliest days of his tenure, Peter lovingly known by his colleagues and friends as "El Jefe" believed deeply in the power of Miami as a global gateway and positioned American Airlines accordingly. He understood that what would be good for Miami would be good for American, and under his leadership the airline's presence at Miami International Airport grew exponentially. His strategic efforts helped transform the hub from a modest domestic station into one of the world's most important airline hubs and the premier Latin-American gateway.

His official responsibilities as Senior Vice President for Miami, Caribbean and Latin America (MCLA) where he led all aspects of the airline's operations including sales, marketing, maintenance, flight service and reservations reflected the scope of his ambition: based in Miami from 1992, he led American's growth throughout the region. Many within the industry will always remember him as "the face of American in Miami, the Caribbean and Latin America."

But beyond the numbers and the strategy, Peter was first and foremost an extraordinary mentor. Countless colleagues will recall how he took time, cared deeply, and helped develop the next generation of airline professionals.His leadership style was defined by humility, generosity and a genuine belief in giving back, not just to the company, but to the communities the airline served. He was soft spoken but impactful.

Peter believed that the success of an airline is inextricably linked to the success of its home region. In Miami, he championed partnerships, sponsorships, economic-development initiatives and community outreach in tandem with American's growth. For him, the slogan wasn't just corporate platitude it was practice: when Miami thrives, American thrives.

Peter is survived by his beloved wife Mary Lou Rodon Dolara; his daughters Brooke Dolara Abbott (Daniel Abbott), Katie Dolara Olsen (Dane Olsen), and Pamela Dolara; his step-children Katrina Alvarez Ruiz (Joseph Ruiz), Jorge Alvarez and Dr. Alexandra Alvarez Lopez (Dr. Andres Lopez); his grandchildren Isabel, Matias, Max, Ellie, Andre and Bobby; his brothers in law Lincoln Rodon (Marilin Rodon), and Rafael Rodon (Teresa Rodon), his first wife Penelope Poor; and the many friends and colleagues whose lives he enriched.

Outside of his professional accomplishments, Peter had a lifelong passion for long-distance running, having completed 24 marathons, including two Boston Marathons. Remarkably, he placed in the top ten in the over 65 category in his final marathon while battling Parkinson's disease, a testament to his determination and spirit.

He leaves behind the indelible imprint of an incredible leader, a steadfast mentor, a loyal friend, a loving family member and most of all, a humble visionary who saw possibilities where others saw challenge.

Final tribute

In memory of Peter J. Dolara we honor a man who changed the trajectory of an airline, transformed a region's global connectivity, and guided countless individuals to their own success. His legacy will fly on in the planes that depart Miami, in the communities he helped strengthen, and in the leadership of those he mentored.

He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered always.

Services information

A Mass at St. Augustine Church and Catholic Student Center, 1400 Miller Road, Coral Gables, Florida 33146, will be offered for his spirit on Thursday, Nov. 20th at 2:30 pm. In lieu of flowers, please donate to The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research, P.O. Box 5014 Hagerstown, MD 21741.