Theodore H. Dolci, Sr., a self-made businessman and community pillar of Hamilton, New Jersey, passed away on January 18, 2025, at the age of 96. Born on March 26, 1928, Ted's life was a testament to the power of perseverance, hard work, and community spirit. Ted was the son of the late Nazzareno Dolci and Assunta Scarponi-Dolci, and sibling of the late Dominic Dolci, Anthony Dolci, Joseph Dolci, Linda Lee and Florence Moriconi. He is survived by his loving wife, Louise Dolci of 36 years, two children Theodore Dolci, Jr. (partner, Debbie Monahan) and Patricia Morreale, stepchildren, Dana Hendrickson, Kristi Lugossy (husband, Frank Lugossy), and Traci Hendrickson (partner, Joel Berinson). He is also survived by six grandchildren, one great grandchild, brother Jule Dolci and many cousins, nieces, nephews and extended family. Raised during the Great Depression in poverty, Ted overcame significant challenges, including a physical handicap, to forge his own path. At the young age of 18, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, starting his own business with nothing more than a used 1949 Ford tractor with iron wheels, purchased for $800. His initial venture involved tilling vegetable gardens for homeowners at $5 per job. Ted's determination and business acumen led him to build one of the leading utility contracting companies for land developers and local government water and sewer utilities. He was the founder and co-owner of Crucili-Dolci Engineering Inc., a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit. Over the years, Ted invested in vacant land in Hamilton and developed numerous residential neighborhoods in partnership with local builders. His developments included Abbot Commons, Briarwood, Middleton Estates, Oak Knoll Estates, Crestwood Apartments, Kuser Hollow, and Thomas Rhodes Industrial Park. Ted's impact extended far beyond his business endeavors. He was deeply committed to his community, sponsoring many Little League Baseball teams and donating time and equipment to build community-based facilities in Hamilton, including The Hamilton Elks, Hamilton PBA Hall, and The Ancient Order of Hibernians. His contributions were recognized with a lifetime award from the Hamilton PBA and honors from numerous community organizations. An avid horse racing enthusiast, Ted was a skilled thoroughbred handicapper who read the daily racing form religiously. He spent many summers at the Historic Saratoga Race Course, where he developed friendships with top thoroughbred horse owners, trainers, and jockeys from around the world. Throughout his life, Ted maintained close relationships with members of the judiciary, including judges at local, state, and federal levels. He was also a friend and supporter of countless elected officials from both political parties across local, county, and state government for over seven decades. Ted Dolci, Sr. will be remembered not only for his business acumen but also for his commitment to mentoring young people, offering career and life advice, and helping many secure jobs and advancement in their careers. His life story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating how one can rise from humble beginnings to become a respected business leader and community benefactor. Ted's legacy lives on through the many lives he touched, the communities he helped build, and the enduring impact of his generosity and wisdom. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the Hamilton community he so dearly loved. Private funeral services and entombment at St. Mary's Cemetery, Hamilton, New Jersey are under the direction of Kingston & Kemp Funeral Home, Hamilton, New Jersey. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Ted’s honor to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude’s Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or online at www.stjude.org.