Claudio Pineiro

Claudio Pineiro, 91, residing in Andover Township for 45 years, passed away on August 14, 2025, surrounded by his immediate family, at the home he built. He was born in Beluso, Spain, on October 22, 1933, and immigrated to Staten Island, NY, in 1951, becoming a U.S. citizen six years later. He served in the US Army from 1957 to 1959, working as a helicopter mechanic at Fort Eustis in Virginia, and spent his career as a Merchant Marine.

As a marine engineer, he worked on many ships sailing around the world, covering five continents. Ships that benefited from his skills include the SS United States, which set the transatlantic crossing record that still stands, and the BT Alaska, where he greatly enjoyed the beauty of Alaska. After retirement, he earnestly began woodworking and created beautiful furniture for his family. In addition, he and his wife, Gloria, also had time to travel together, revisiting Claudio's birth home and family in Spain, as well as adventures like white water rafting down the Colorado River.

Always believing in serving and giving back, he spent 10 years in the Andover Township Volunteer Fire Department and 20 years working for Northwest NJ Habitat for Humanity, including as their Board President, where he helped build homes and shared his immense experience and knowledge. Always being there for his family, he was tirelessly willing to help.

Claudio, well-admired and loved by all he met, will be remembered for his passion for life, epic tales, sense of humor, ability to fix anything, resolute work ethic, generosity of spirit, care for his community, and unwavering love and devotion to his family.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Gloria Pineiro, his daughters Ruth Pineiro and Judith Pineiro, his son-in-law Christopher Poppe, and siblings Angelica (Cuca) Gavitte and Carlos Pineiro. He is pre-deceased by his father, Ramon Pineiro, his mother, Maria Vilas Iglesias, and his brothers, Ramon Pineiro and Roberto Pineiro.

A memorial service will take place at a later date, and in lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Northwest NJ Habitat for Humanity. Arrangements and online condolences through www.iliff-ruggierofuneralhome.com