Renee Dondero, 74, of Red Bank, peacefully passed away Sept. 20. Born in Newark to Melchiore and Catherine Rizzuto, she is survived by her two sons, Joseph Dondero and his wife Jennifer and David Dondero and his wife Jennifer, as well as her daughter Jennifer Rogers and her husband Chris. In addition, she is survived by her six grandchildren, CJ, Dylan, Mia, Madison, Mason and Siena, and her three siblings, Victor Rizzuto, Melanie Natelson and Tony Rizzuto.
Renee was a devoted mother, grandmother and sister who was an avid fan of the Yankees and Notre Dame football. She spent her time traveling game to game watching her children and grandchildren compete in a variety of sports. When not watching sports, Renee looked forward to spending time with friends, playing bridge and enjoying her glass of wine.
Renee has touched many people across her life. This included working at Bell Labs, Lucent and Ocean First Bank, as well as her social networks, such as the “Shady Ladies,” “Softball Moms,” bridge partners, and numerous book club friends.
Friends and family visited John E. Day Funeral Home in Red Bank Sept. 24. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Sept. 25 at St. Mary Mother of God Church, Middletown. Interment will be private.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Renee’s memory to the American Lung Association at lung.org.
The article originally appeared in the September 30 – October 6, 2021 print edition of The Two River Times.
