Pete Berrios, Torico Ice Cream Co-Founder, Dies at 76

JERSEY CITY, NJ — Jersey City is mourning the loss of a business and local icon, Pedro, or Pete, Berrios.

Berrios was the co-owner and co-founder of Torico Ice Cream. Berrios died on June 28 at home with his family by his side, according to his obituary. He was 76-years-old and leaves behind his wife Pura and four daughters.

Berrios migrated to Jersey City from Puerto Rico with his family in 1959. In 1968, Pedro and Pura opened a delicatessen at the corner of Erie and First Streets that would eventually become a Jersey City ice cream staple. Pura's pregnancy with their first child brought strong cravings for the fresh island fruits and ice cream the couple enjoyed in Puerto Rico — so Pedro made it happen.

Churning out her favorite tropical flavors in an ice cream machine, the couple soon realized neighbors in the area had similar cravings, and the ice cream shop was born. The name "Torico" came from a Puerto Rican mash-up of the words "todo rico" or "it's all delicious."

The shop shared the sad news on Facebook, writing:

"Pete poured his life, love and dreams into his business. He produced endless smiles and memories in our community with his homemade recipes that will continue on for many more years to come. Whether you knew Pete personally or in passing, his love flowed through everything he did and through everyone he met. We love you beyond words and will be greatly missed. Thank you for everything you've given us."

Over 200 people reacted to the post and over 80 commented. A former employee named Abraham Lopez commented:

"I used to work for Pedro while studying in Ferris High School. The lessons Pedro taught me, from business operations to personal hygiene and proper grooming, and customer service, my many hours at Torico made me a better person with a great respect for strong work ethic. I’ll never forget you, Pedro. You were kind, demanded the best from your employees, and always poured into us. I’ll never forget you. May your me memory forever be a blessing to the countless lives you touched. Especially those of your family."

A gathering will be held for family and friends on Friday from 5-8 p.m. at Michalski Funeral Home, 463 Monmouth Street, Jersey City. Funeral Mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Friday at St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception Parish, 254 Second Street, Jersey City, followed by a repast in the church’s Marion Hall.