NEW MILFORD, New Jersey, August 25. JULIA Passeggiato Dolce, a five-time world age group and four-time American age group record holder, passed away at the age of 97 on August 21. After retiring from the sport to raise a family, she returned to the sport as a Masters swimmer in her 70’s.
A 2005 USMS All-Star Team member, Dolce earned All-America Team honors in three events in the 95-99 age group. Dolce also represented the United States at the Senior Olympics.
Dolce was predeceased her husband, Joseph, and her sister, Helen Markoe. Surviving are her daughters; Mary Ann Brendel of Afton, N.Y., and Elaine Latz of River Vale, N.J.; her stepdaughter, Ann Lomara of Henderson, Nev. and stepson, Frank Dolce of Las Vegas, Nev.; 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren; and her dearest friend, Maura Kelly of New Milford, N.J.
Those who wish may make memorial gifts to "Hope and Heroes Children's Cancer Fund, Children's Hospital of New York Presbyterian, 3959 Broadway, CH5-102, New York, NY 10032-3784.
The Record and Herald News contributed to this report.