Joseph M. Mattone held his family close to him in all his ventures, from law to major real estate development.
Photo via Mattone Investors
Joseph M. Mattone, a towering figure in one of the world’s most formidable retail markets, died peacefully surrounded by his family at his home on Thursday, March 21, at the age of 92.
A distinguished lawyer and real estate mogul, Mattone’s ascent through the ranks of real estate development not only marked his own success but also uplifted his entire family, setting a remarkable example of perseverance and achievement.
The youngest of nine children born on September 15, 1931, during the depths of the Great Depression, Mattone’s life story began in Greenpoint. His family, with roots stretching back to Italy in 1875, epitomized the immigrant dream.
Mattone’s educational journey was marked by ambition and resilience. Initially attending P.S 17 in Williamsburg, he was later accepted into the renowned Stuyvesant High School. However, he completed his high school education at St. John’s Preparatory School, a private Catholic institution in Astoria, laying the groundwork for his enduring connection with St. John’s.
His academic prowess continued to shine as he was admitted to St. John’s College on the Hillcrest campus, where he earned both his bachelor’s and law degrees in an impressive span of five years, graduating cum laude and ranking fifth in his law school class. Notably, despite being the youngest, Mattone was the first in his family to achieve a college education at the time, a testament to his dedication and the foundational values instilled by his family.
Mattone was not the last of the family to walk on the Hillcrest campus. Four of his seven children went on to receive law degrees from St. John’s, as well as his daughter in law. And three of his 27 grandchildren, including his grandson in law also joined the ranks. Two of his grandchildren are currently enrolled in the program, according to the…
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