James J. Garibaldi, a prominent commercial real estate broker in New Jersey who spent 23 years as CEO of The Garibaldi Group in Chatham, has died at age 72.
Garibaldi, known throughout the industry as Jim, had a career that spanned more than 50 years at the firm started by his grandfather in 1919. He is the former president of the multimarket network of independently owned brokerage firms known as CORFAC International, among other accomplishments, having also executed Investors Bank’s original lease in 2004 for more than 56,000 square feet at 101 JFK Parkway in the Short Hills section of Millburn.
His passing on Nov. 22 follows the death of his brother and longtime partner, Jay Garibaldi, in early September.
“Whether in business or in life, my uncle led with compassion,” said Jeffrey Garibaldi Jr., president of The Garibaldi Group. “In times of stress or hardship, he focused on ways to heal the ills he observed through taking action. He was a big man who made a big impact, both in the world of real estate, as well as with the people who were lucky enough to know and love him. He will forever be missed.”
Below is an internal memo from company CEO Jeff Garibaldi, announcing the passing:
I am deeply saddened to report that our brother Jim passed away peacefully on Wednesday night. Jim never lost his passion for life and despite the challenges he faced, he always kept incredible courage and optimism.
Jim leaves behind Aggie, his beloved wife for nearly 50 years and his daughters Emily and Meredith, who are both married to great guys and have blessed Jim and Aggie with 4 beautiful grandchildren.
Jim had an illustrious career at The Garibaldi Group spanning over 50 years leading the growth of this now 4th generation family business. He also served on the Board of Directors for Investors Bank.
Along with this, Jim generously contributed his time and talent to so many charitable organizations…Big Brothers Big Sisters being top of the list. He volunteered and met his little brother some 35 years ago and they have remained close thru all these years. Jim served as a Board member of Big Brothers Big Sisters of NJ. Jim was a noble and selfless man someone you could always count on to be there for you.
He was a great brother, and business partner. He loved music and learned to play guitar when he was 15 years old and played throughout his life. He loved golf, going to baseball games and concerts. And he was someone you could always have a genuine conversation with about life. He was always there to listen and support you. Jim was one of the funniest people and one of the most fun people to hang out with. No doubt the best days of Jim’s life were spent on sitting on the Pink Beaches in Bermuda with his family and friends. We will so dearly miss him.
Jeff
