Rose Buonocore, One of the First Women to Work at Freehold Raceway, Dies

Rose Buonocore of Freehold died on Feb. 8, 2013 at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, Neptune Township after a brief illness. She was a beloved mother, a devoted friend and a shrewd businesswoman to all those who had the privilege of knowing her.

Born in Hoboken, Buonocore and her family moved to Freehold in the late 50's. She was a community and political fundraiser. She was most proud of her contribution for the development of CentraState Medical Center. Employed as a pari-mutuel worker at the age of 35, she was one of the first women to work at Freehold Raceway, the oldest racetrack in the country. She loved her job and worked until she retired in 2002.

Buonocore and her husband Philip, who died in 1976, enjoyed owning racehorses. Their first thoroughbred was called Proud Moment and this hobby was a great source of joy for them. Buonocore also enjoyed traveling, abroad and throughout the United States, Broadway shows and gardening.

Buonocore is survived by her daughter Linda Tesa Olken and her husband Jon of Manhattan, her daughter Barbara Buonocore of Manhattan; her son David Buonocore and his wife Barbara Breen of Freehold and their Brittany dog, RJ. She also leaves her beloved grandson, Justin Tesa and his wife London of Brooklyn; and their children Elle and Noah King.

Visiting hours will be held at the Higgins Memorial Home on Tuesday, Feb. 12 from 4 to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, Feb. 13 at the Higgins Memorial Home with a blessing from the Reverend David Wagner at 10 a.m.

Interment will follow at St. Rose of Lima Cemetery, where she will rest beside her husband.