Rita Pescatore, 91, of Long Branch, passed away peacefully at home on Friday, March 11, 2016. Rita, a devout Catholic her entire life, was born and raised on Jefferson Street in Hoboken. It was there that she met her husband Tony and where they began their married life 69 years ago. They were sports enthusiasts and spent their time going to Yankee and Ranger games, as well as following the big bands of the era. Actually, Rita was one of the founders of the original Frank Sinatra fan club!
Rita raised her family in Little Falls, where she also worked in a local bank. She was the greatest fan of her boy’s activities through the years. She and Tony then moved to Allenhurst at the Jersey Shore. She would often recall the many wonderful memories at the Allenhurst Beach Club with family and friends, where they would spend their summer days.
Rita and Tony moved to Boca Raton, Florida, where they lived for the next chapter of their lives. Rita hosted all of her family there over the years, and her children and grandchildren have the fondest memories of those times together. One of the highlights for all was going to the Boca Beach Club, where the family had fun, sun and a lot of food together!
Rita never met anyone that she didn’t want to say hello to. She will be remembered for her outgoing and warm personality, engaging and hugging anyone in her path. Her Italian cooking, holiday baking and especially her sponge cake, were treasured family traditions. She will be remembered for her love of her family, and the tag line she most used, “I love you more”. Mom, we love you more too, and will miss you more than you know.
Rita is predeceased by her husband Tony who died last June; her son, Patrick; her daughter-in-law, Debra Pescatore; her mother, Rose Olandesi; her brothers, Frank and Ernie Olandesi; her nephew, Frank Olandesi; her brother-in-law, Frank Pescatore; and her dear friend Skip Agresta.
She is survived by her devoted son, Frank - who has demonstrated the utmost in love and care for her through these years – and his wife Janice; her grandchildren- Joanna, Christian, Dustin, Evan and Cara – who were such a big part of her life; her nieces and nephews; her cousin, Lee Cardinale; the DiGiulio family; friend, Darel Agresta and the entire Agresta family. We are so grateful for the love and care that Vendalyn Nicholas – Rita’s friend and caregiver – provided to her at this tender time in her life.
Relatives and friends are invited to visit from 4-8 pm Monday at the Fiore Funeral Home, 236 Monmouth Road, Oakhurst. Funeral Mass will be offered at 11 am Tuesday at St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, West End, Long Branch. For condolences, please visit www.fiorefuneralhomes.com.