LBI Restaurant Owner, Prominent NYC Athletic Director Dies

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Bob Alegre's accomplishments ranged far. He brought a Staten Island high school's athletic program to new heights. Then he owned a restaurant on Long Beach Island.

Alegre, 74, died Tuesday at his Manahawkin home. Before moving to Manahawkin, Alegre lived in Staten Island's Prince's Bay neighborhood for 30 years, according to the Staten Island Advance.

He served as St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School's athletic director and boys basketball coach. The school's athletic department made major strides under his leadership.

Sea added multiple teams, especially on the girls' side. He also oversaw the construction of Sea's Viking Park, a 2,000-seat football and soccer stadium with a press box and scoreboard, all ringed by a running track. The complex included a state-of-the-art fitness center, practice fields and two gymnasiums, according to the Staten Island Advance.

“We are all saddened by the loss of this fine man,” Sea principal Father Michael Reilly told the Staten Island Advance. “He will be deeply missed by the St. Joseph by-the-Sea community and the greater Staten Island community. He and his family are in my prayers.”

Alegre then "retired" to Manahawkin, where he bought Woodies Too on LBI. The restaurant prides itself on serving "LBI's best burgers." Woodies provides a 1950s and 60s atmosphere and 37 types of hamburgers, include unique delicacies such as the peanut butter burger and Maui burger, according to the LBI Chamber of Commerce.

He also spent retirement with his family and grandchildren, attending all their activities, according to his obituary. His family includes his beloved wife, Cathy, of 52 years of marriage, sons (Robert and Christopher), daughter in law (Eileen), three granddaughters (Sarah and her husband Sam, Katie and Erin), two living siblings (Herman and Arlene) and two deceased sisters (Dolly and Dolores).

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bob's name came be sent to the Southern Regional High School girls volleyball team.

It's been a tough couple weeks in the LBI culinary community. Mario Aversa, the founder of Mario's Italian Market, died Nov. 7 at age 46. Read more: 'One Of A Kind:' Community Mourns Owner Of LBI Italian Market

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