Dominic Pescatore

Dominic (Don) Ralph Pescatore, a man whose life resonated with travel, learning, teaching, and selfless service, passed away peacefully with family on August 5, 2025. Known affectionately as 'Pop' to his three children and 'Pop-Pop' to his nine grandchildren, he had recently celebrated his 90th birthday with family in June.

Born in Hoboken, New Jersey on June 16, 1935, Don grew up in an Italian-Catholic family deeply rooted in faith and heritage. Both his maternal and paternal sides boasted large families, ensuring his childhood was rich with aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends. Sunday dinners and holidays were vibrant occasions, filled with lively conversations and, of course, wonderful, traditional Italian dishes. His mother, Bianca (Bea), always had ample room at the table – a lesson Don embraced and passed down, believing in always preparing enough food for more than expected! He held deep pride and affection for Hoboken, his hometown, where he forged his closest and most enduring friendships. Don also found joy at the family's cherished summer retreat in Culver Lake, New Jersey. This home, discovered on a whim by Don and his mother who bought it before telling Fred, became a treasured gathering place for Don, his brother Jack, sister Patricia, family, and many friends, filled with music, boat rides, and laughter.

From an early age, Don brimmed with curiosity and creativity. He played the piano, fondly recalling the day his father, Fred, surprised him with a new piano for his 13th birthday. His lifelong love for the arts-especially theatre, opera, and literature-thrived, nurtured by his proximity to New York City. His arts education was further developed at Seton Hall Prep and Seton Hall University, where he enjoyed participation in the Drama and Glee clubs. Throughout his life, Don shared stories of the professors and clergy at these schools who profoundly broadened his perspective, and he remained deeply grateful to his Aunt Claire, whose support made his studies there possible.

Don dedicated his career to education, teaching English and French at Hoboken High School, where he was admired by students and colleagues alike. He maintained relationships with former students his entire life, holding a deep conviction in the transformative power of education-a belief he instilled in both his students and his family. Alongside teaching, Don pursued a passion for real estate, working in the field throughout and beyond his educational career. He eventually retired to Phoenix, Arizona, focusing on real estate, the warm desert sun, and enjoying time with his son and family who lived nearby.

Don's love of travel began early, with captivating ocean liner voyages to Europe. His appreciation for culture and history led him to explore Europe extensively, often conversing in Italian and French during his trips. It was on one of these journeys that he met his wife, Greta Heus, at the captain's dining table on a trans-Atlantic cruise ship. They married in New York in 1963 and moved from Hoboken to homes in Rutherford and Upper Saddle River as their family grew to include three children: Cecilia, Catalina, and James. The family cherished their summers at their beach house in Harvey Cedars on Long Beach Island-a place overflowing with carefree memories, hosting family and friends throughout the summer.

Don was known for his spontaneous spirit, whether it was catching a Broadway show at the last minute, flying to Paris to surprise his daughter, or dropping by to visit a friend. He possessed a quiet, compassionate heart, always ready to help those in need. Whether supporting a family from Costa Rica or mentoring students facing hardship, he consistently led by example, demonstrating kindness, empathy, and unwavering support. Don was truly his best self when he was helping others.

Above all, Don was most proud of his children, their spouses, and his grandchildren. He spoke often of their accomplishments and the immense joy they brought him. His grandchildren will forever treasure the whimsical stories he told-like those of imaginary pink elephants-and peaceful moments spent meditating with 'Pop-Pop.'

A man of faith, Don held a special devotion to St. Anthony. He was a lifelong learner and voracious reader, with interests spanning Hoboken's history, the Italian Renaissance, and the psychology of birth order. His captivating storytelling drew everyone in-family, friends, and even strangers-offering vivid glimpses into a life well lived.

Don was a true Renaissance man: talented, wise, and endlessly curious. But most of all, he was a great listener, a trusted confidant, and a source of sound, heartfelt advice. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Don is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Bianca Pescatore; his brother, John (Jack) Pescatore; his brother-in-law, Thomas Carey; and his wife, Greta Heus Pescatore. He is survived by his daughters, Cecilia Matthews (Brian) and Catalina Sibilsky (David); and his son, James Pescatore (Karen). His nine grandchildren: Paige (26), Blake (24), Claire (24), Anthony (22), Nicolas (20), Lars (19), Jake (18), Alek (17), and Faye (13). His sister Patricia Carey, and the families of his niece Lena Moses and nephews Patrick Carey (Leah) and Michael Carey (Thu). The family will have a private celebration to honor Don's life and memory.