More Than a Mayor

The final “title” that Dominic Mazzoccoli may have had attached to his name was “person living with ALS” but he proved over his 64-year-long life that he was SO much more than an ALS patient. He was a talented gardener and landscaper, a protector of the environment, traveler, and self-taught home builder. He served two years in the United States Marine Corps and ascended to the rank of Captain. After his time in the military, he became a graduate of Central Connecticut State University. While searching for his first full-time job, he became a bus driver and substitute teacher in order to support his family. He then spent 20 years at Travelers before finishing up his insurance career as the Chief Underwriting Officer at HAI Group. Mazzoccoli earned the title of ‘business owner’ when he opened a store selling computer software. But after becoming frustrated by red tape, he decided to put his hat in the political arena where he won a seat on the town council in 1981 and mayor’s office in 1985 for three terms. Two years later, he was elected state representative, serving in Hartford until 1999. However, the most prestigious titles that Dominic held were ‘Dad’ and ‘Grandpa.’ He was a proud and loving family man and loyal friend. In fact, 42 years after graduating high school, 10 of his grade school friends rallied around him after learning about his diagnosis to create the Annual 5K Run for Dom. 

Mazzoccoli was a public servant through and through—he served his state, he served his country and above all, he served his community. 

The community of Newington, CT, our country and most importantly, the Mazzoccoli family, lost their leader too soon. We ask that you act with the same inspiration and dedication that Dom showed his entire life to better the world around him by advocating for the fueling and funding of ALS research so that one day we don’t lose even one incredible person, like Dom, to this terrible disease.