Joaquin Nolasco Obituary

Joaquin Nolasco, age 84, beloved father and grandfather, passed away peacefully on Thursday, June 26th, 2025, surrounded by his son and daughter.
Born in Higüey, Dominican Republic, Joaquin faced early adversity, becoming an orphan at a young age. As a teenager, he was taken in by a compassionate couple he lovingly called Doña Ernestina and Don Ramón, who raised him as their own. Their kindness and guidance helped shape the man he would become.
Joaquin was deeply passionate about learning and personal growth. In his twenties, he earned a scholarship to study at Texas A&M University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Agricultural Economics. His academic journey later took him to Michigan State University, where he earned a Master's degree in Agricultural Management Systems and Development. There he also met his future wife, Jeanne. After completing his studies, the couple returned to the Dominican Republic to build a life together and start their family.
Back in his home country, Joaquin dedicated his life to rural
development, agricultural progress, and natural resource conservation. His work, carried out through various organizations, was aimed at improving lives and promoting sustainability. He worked on numerous projects through various organizations, always striving to uplift underserved communities. His commitment to these causes allowed him to travel the world, forging international connections and sharing knowledge across cultures.
In addition to his development work, Joaquin was a respected professor at several universities and institutes in the Dominican Republic. He taught agricultural economics and international marketing, inspiring generations of students with his wisdom, humility, and dedication to education.
Later in life, Joaquin moved permanently to the United States. He worked as a substitute teacher in New York City before joining the produce department at ShopRite, where he became a valued and well-liked team member until his retirement.
Outside of his professional life, Joaquin found joy in simple pleasures. He enjoyed photography and would often experiment with photo editing to create lasting images for his family. A lifelong learner, he also loved researching and writing about different historical periods and figures, spending countless hours exploring the past with curiosity and enthusiasm on his computer.
Joaquin will be remembered for his kind heart, quiet strength, and devotion to his family. He was a loving father and a proud grandfather who cherished every moment with his three grandchildren-Xander, Nyla, and Emma. They lovingly called him abuelo. He saw them as remarkable and talented in every way and took great joy being in their presence.
Joaquin lived a full and meaningful life, leaving behind a legacy of love, perseverance, and kindness. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts, thoughts, and prayers of all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his daughter Melody Bartuck, and her husband Ian Bartuck; his son Joaquin Nolasco, and his wife Patricia Ciecierega; and his cherished grandchildren Xander Xavier, Nyla Lyric and Emma Rose.
He will be cremated, and no public service is planned. His family will hold a private celebration of his life.