John R. “Bob” Dondero, 90, of Riverdale, NJ (formerly of Dumont), passed away peacefully at his home on May 5, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was the beloved husband of Virginia “Ginny” Dondero (née Kowantz); a devoted father to Michael Dondero and his partner Roland Hernandez, Peter Dondero and his wife Donna, and Susan Kasperavich and her husband Edward; and a cherished grandfather to Ashley Kasperavich.
Bob and Ginny shared 44 wonderful years together in Dumont before moving to Powder Mill Condominium, an over‑55 community in River Vale, where they continued to build lasting friendships and memories.
Born in Jersey City, Bob was raised in Union City by his parents, Mary (née O’Neill) and John B. Dondero. He attended Xavier High School in New York City and went on to study at St. Peter’s College and Fairleigh Dickinson University where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree. He proudly served in the United States Army Reserves from 1960 to 1966. In 1962, Bob met Ginny, the love of his life, and together they raised three children. This June, they would have been married 64 years.
Professionally, Bob was a Food Service Director for Philip Morris, Ford Motor Company, and Aramark Corporation. He and Ginny also owned and operated a beloved catering business in Dumont for more than 20 years, known for both its food and hospitality.
Bob dedicated his life to service, most notably through his lifelong membership in St. John’s Council #1345 of the Knights of Columbus. He served in numerous leadership roles, including Grand Knight, District Deputy, President of the Bergen Federation, and Faithful Navigator of the Fourth Degree. As Head Chef, Bob spent countless hours preparing meals and mentoring others; fittingly, the kitchen at St. John’s proudly bears his name. He was also honored as a member of “Bergen’s Best” by the Bergen Federation of the Knights of Columbus. Among his many contributions, Bob revitalized the longstanding tradition of monthly visits by the Knights to the Paramus Veterans Home, ensuring veterans were able to attend Mass.
Beyond the Knights, Bob was deeply involved in Meals on Wheels of North Jersey, ultimately serving as President of the Board of Trustees. At St. Mary’s Church in Dumont, he co‑chaired the annual Carnival, ran the food booth, and oversaw food operations throughout the event. He also served as President of the Parish Council, President of the Dumont Swim Club, and volunteered with multiple organizations supporting underserved populations at homeless shelters in Bergen and Essex Counties.
After relocating to Riverdale, Bob remained as active as ever, serving as a member of the Board of Powder Mill Associates and as Secretary on the Board and also led the weekly rosary group in his building.
To describe Bob as the “ultimate volunteer” would still fall short. He found true joy in serving others, lived his faith every day and impacted countless lives through his generosity, leadership, and kindness.
Bob will be deeply missed by his family, his brother Knights, and the many friends he made throughout his life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Frech‑McKnight Funeral Home, 161 Washington Avenue, Dumont. A Funeral Mass will be offered on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 AM at St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church, 280 Washington Avenue, Dumont. Interment will follow at George Washington Memorial Park, Paramus.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Bob’s memory to the Paramus Veterans Home.