Robert Pastore ’64

Time to Give Back

Coach Willard and Robert Pastore '64When Bob Pastore '64 began his career in aviation, men wore jackets and ties on flights and attendants served lobster in first class.

Pastore, who retired in 2003, spent his career making air travel safer. He founded a business devoted to training pilots and served with the Air Line Pilots Association, the largest pilot union in the world, rising to become its chairman. In 2018, he was recognized with the Federal Aviation Administration's Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award, the nation's highest honor for pilots with more than 50 years of flight experience.

Pastore's passion for flight took off when he was 15-year-old from Newark visiting his cousin at a county fair in Pennsylvania. There, he and his cousin were offered a 15-minute airplane ride for $2 — a large sum of money for the boys. “I convinced my cousin, and after that I was hooked,” Pastore said. “When my mother found out about it, she went nuts. When my aunt found out about it, she went nuts, too. But that summer in Pennsylvania changed everything.”

Pastore attended Seton Hall Prep and the University, taking flying lessons sporadically while earning a degree in accounting and a minor in economics and journalism. While a collegian, Bob was active as an editor of The Setonian and senior prom chair.

“My time at Seton Hall helped build my character and shaped the way I approached the opportunities in my life. My dad was a truck driver and my mom was a homemaker and we lived in Newark. The sacrifices they made to send my brother Dave '74 and me to The Prep and the University were astonishing.

“I have accumulated much in my life, and now it's time to give back. I encourage my fellow alumni to review your estate planning and do something for your alma mater.”

An avid Pirates basketball fan, half of Bob's estate gift will support Pirate Blue. The other half is being left on an unrestricted basis, which will allow the University to address its highest priorities at the time the gift is received. As for recognition, “I'd be fine with your naming something in my parents' memories. They deserve the gratitude and credit.”

At a Glance: Bequests

  • Charitable bequests are made by naming Seton Hall as a beneficiary in your will or living trust. This type of gift does not affect your cash flow.
  • Your assets remain in your control during your lifetime. You can modify your gift at any time should circumstances change.
  • You can direct your gift to the area of Seton Hall's mission that is most meaningful to you.
  • We can provide you with model bequest language and will work with you on the details.