Robert B Pearson

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of our father, Robert B. Pearson, 86, of Bergenfield, NJ, on June 5, 2024.

Robert graduated Bergenfield High School in 1956 where he was a standout varsity athlete in football, basketball and baseball. Following high school, he pursued a professional baseball career and signed a minor league contract to join the North Carolina league where he played for several seasons as a pitcher. He was scouted by several Major League teams including the Minnesota Twins and New York Yankees. Robert’s baseball career was cut short when he suffered from a career ending injury. 

Following baseball, Robert attended Jersey City State College where he earned a bachelors degree. He continued his education and went on to earn a Masters from Drew University and MBA from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He began his professional career working at the Newark Chamber of Commerce where he developed the City’s first workforce development program. Robert also spent several years at Bergen Community College where he taught history and served as the assistant registrar. Robert moved into other areas to include investment management. His entrepreneurial spirit drove him to create a company to improve the energy and environmental sector in the 1990s.

Robert was an avid and astute reader and debater. He was passionate about college football and his Fighting Irish and never missed chance to watch a game with grandchildren. He enjoyed being around people and having deep conversations on any and all topics. He enjoyed politics and talking about the Federal Reserve Bank. He was a great writer and storyteller. He had incredible love for his family and he was especially proud of his five grandsons. He enjoyed teaching his grandsons about global affairs, sports history, and instilled within them an open mind and competitive spirit. 

Devoted father of Jonathan R. Pearson, his wife Elizabeth, Robert D. Pearson, Christopher J. Pearson and his wife Danielle. Cherished grandfather of Christian, Jack and Kelley Pearson, Jacob and Dylan Pearson.  Former husband of Dolores A. Califri.  Brother of Florence Cooke.  

Robert was pre-deceased by his parents Olan and Florence Pearson.

Visitation at the Leonardis Memorial Home, Inc., 210 Ridgedale Avenue, Florham Park on Monday from 10am-12:45pm, followed by the funeral mass at Assumption Church in Morristown at 1:30pm.  A repast will follow.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Robert’s name to your favorite charity.
 
 
 

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