The Pietro Maugeri Foundation
"Have a good journey and be always happy - Sempre Allegro"
                                                   
Pietro will be remembered by his numerous friends, neighbors and customers who frequented
his barber shop in Ho-Ho-Kus for more than 30 years, as an incredibly altruistic person, always
ready with a smile, a pat on the back and his very own “Ciao Bella!’ for everyone he met.  He
always made others feel good about life and encouraged them to keep going no matter how
tough things were.  His happy disposition and sense of humor, his warmth and caring attitude,
left an indelible impression on everyone he met.  Always positive and supportive, with an ability
to look for goodness and kindness in all, he truly exemplified how life should be lived by his
example and his generous spirit.

For many years he and his partner, with the support of their customers at the Domenic & Pietro’s
Barber Studio in Ho-Ho-Kus, were the top fundraisers for the American Cancer Society's annual
George Washington Bridge Challenge, a 63 mile bike-a-thon.  When he was to receive the top
prize at the first annual event – a brand new Dodge Colt – he promptly turned in the award and
donated it right back to the Society.  The disease would eventually claim his life and he died of
Esophageal cancer on March 1, 2004 at the age of 61.   

Pietro walked his short journey with cancer with amazing grace and unfailing faith. He had
always been fit, athletic and strong.  He enjoyed biking, swimming and running.  He was a long-
time marathoner having participated in New York, Boston, California, Texas and New Jersey.  
After becoming involved in the Wyckoff/Franklin Lakes Triathlon, he joined a small but very
special group of triathletes with whom he trained and participated at numerous events.  In July
2000, with their strong support, he successfully completed the Lake Placid Ironman Triathlon.

He took delight in gardening, canning his own tomato sauce and making his own wine.  Skiing
and camping were also among his favorite activities he enjoyed with his family. He lived life to
the fullest, and always made sure that he made someone happy every day.  “Sempre Allegro” --
be always happy -- was his special wish for everyone.  He was a loyal supporter of the Boston
Red Sox and never lost hope that one day they’d win it all - and they did!  He was a long time
resident of Wyckoff and was a member of the St Elizabeth RC Church where he became
involved in the Men’s Cornerstone, a program that would forever impact his own life and the
lives of all those who were touched by his tremendous courage and strength.  

Throughout his battle with cancer Pietro continued to give love, support, comfort and
encouragement to his own family and to all those who offered their hopes and prayers for him.  
He left a lasting impression in the hearts of many and his legacy will live on and continue to
inspire the countless people who knew and loved him.
ABOUT PIETRO
written by Pat Macejka
Men's Cornerstone XI