Please join us virtually this Thursday, August 20th at 7 PM when John Ratto sits down with Stuart Chirichella for our next episode of Hoboken Talks! This online program will be livestreamed on YouTube and Facebook.

The story begins with Angelo and Vincenza Ratto immigrating from Mola di Bari, Italy in 1971 with their 5 sons –Tony, Frank, Pino, Joe, and John. They crossed the Atlantic on a ship in search of better economic opportunities. Joining other relatives in the area, they settled in Hoboken right above Torna’s Pizzeria and became parishioners of St. Ann’s Church.

John was 7 years old at the time and spoke no English. He was enrolled at the Joseph F. Brandt School. Fortunately, John developed a quick friendship with Carmine Percontino, who helped him to feel welcomed and secure in his new home.

John’s father, Angelo, had been an ironworker in Italy. Just about 8 months after immigrating, Angelo opened up the business Mola Iron Works on 61 Paterson Avenue. He selected the name to pay tribute to his beloved hometown in Italy. 4 of the 5 sons, including John, worked for the family business, which was open for 54 years up until this past July.

As a youngster, John’s natural leadership developed through sports. John was inducted into the Hoboken High School Hall of Fame in 2013 for his achievements in soccer. He went on to coach soccer for 30 years and Little League for 17 years.

John will be joining us to share his rich stories about moving to Hoboken, his time working for Mola Iron Works, and his days as a student athlete at Hoboken High School. We must also mention that John was honored as the Gentleman of the Year by the Hoboken Elks in 2014.

Resilience is an important thread woven throughout his life. John will share about battling stage 4 colon cancer, a journey that began 4 years ago. Luckily, he has had his wonderful children – Vincenza Alexia, Angelo and Vincent, and 5 grandchildren – Giovanna, Michael, Luca, Giancarlo, and Vanessa, by his side.

You won’t want to miss this episode! Please tune in this upcoming Thursday.