New Jersey is mourning the loss of Ray Zardetto, who died Oct. 8 at the age of 68.
Zardetto was well known and widely admired and respected within the state’s business, political and military communities – and beyond.
From 2010–2022, Zardetto served as vice president of communications and events at the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce. He then served as writer and editor of Military Matters, a publication of ROI-NJ.
In a statement, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tom Bracken said that Zardetto leaves an indelible mark on the Chamber and the state’s business community. He noted that Zardetto was a driving force behind some of the Chamber’s most prominent initiatives, such as the Walk to Washington & Congressional Dinner and the ReNew Jersey Business Summit & Expo.
‘An inspiring presence’
“We are saddened and shocked by the passing of Ray Zardetto, who was an inspiring presence and a strong leader on the New Jersey Chamber of Commerce team during his 12 years with us from 2010 to 2022,” said Bracken.
Bracken highlighted how Zardetto cared about people and was always eager to lift other – and let them shine.
“He was a mentor to many young professionals at the Chamber, and was a trusted friend to countless colleagues and peers,” said Bracken. He noted Zardetto’s professionalism, steady nature and dry wit, which made him well suited to oversee major events. “We were fortunate to have known him – and to have worked with him.”
Bracken continued, “During Ray’s tenure, the Chamber introduced several signature events that continue to thrive today, including our annual golf outing, member holiday party, Women in Business Awards reception, and a diversity awards program. He also helped elevate the Chamber’s profile by co-authoring a coffee table book on innovation commemorating New Jersey’s 350th birthday, and writing another that spotlights the state’s hidden gems.”
Lasting legacy
Zardetto also forged strong and trusted relationships with the Garden State’s news media. Bracken says that helped strengthen the Chamber’s credibility as well as helped raise the profile of issues important to employers and the economy.
“On behalf of the N.J. Chamber, Ray also built meaningful partnerships with the military, particularly at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst,” said Bracken. “He was a booster of the base’s Honorary Commander Program, connecting business and military leaders to develop mutual understanding and support.
Ray will be deeply missed – but his legacy of innovation, collaboration, and service will continue to shape the New Jersey Chamber for years to come.
— Tom Bracken, president and CEO, New Jersey Chamber of Commerce
“Ray proudly served as an honorary commander and was a tireless ambassador for the base and a supporter for those who lived and worked on the base,” said Bracken. He noted that commitment continued following Zardetto’s retirement from the Chamber with his role at ROI-NJ.
“Ray will be deeply missed – but his legacy of innovation, collaboration, and service will continue to shape the New Jersey Chamber for years to come,” said Bracken. “We extend our deepest condolences to Ray’s wife, Rita, and their children, Gina and Joe.”
NJBIZ sends its deepest condolences to the Zardetto family.
