Update—December 2021
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of John Caruso, a loving husband, father, and friend, who left us in April. John was known for his humor, kindness, and his passion for engaging in meaningful conversations. He loved spending quality time with his friends and family and had a passion for sports, especially football and wrestling. As a long-time resident of Mahopac, he took great pride in supporting the Mahopac wrestling team and dedicated several years to coaching the youth team.
Following Pete’s passing in 2011, John dedicated his life to honoring Pete’s memory and providing support to the team and the local wrestling community that Pete held dear. Each year, John coordinated an annual welcome back dinner for the wrestling team in the fall, as well as the Pete Caruso Memorial Wrestling Tournament in January. Through John’s fundraising efforts, he was able to award over 30 scholarships to deserving Mahopac High School athletes in Pete’s honor.
After careful consideration and with profound sadness, we have reached the difficult decision to discontinue the scholarship program. We want to extend our deepest appreciation to the Mahopac coaches, staff, parents/guardians, student athletes, and community members who have been a part of this program over the years. It has been a privilege for us to witness the ambition, talent, and dedication of the scholarship recipients as they pursued their dreams. We are profoundly grateful for the opportunity to have made a lasting impact on the lives of so many deserving students.
In memory of John and Pete, we ask that you hold them in your thoughts and keep their spirit alive in your hearts.
—The Caruso Family
About Pete
Pete Caruso was a Mahopac High School graduate, who continued his education and wrestling career at McDaniel College with the goal of becoming a teacher and high school athletic coach. Tragically, his life was cut short before his senior year in an automobile accident. Pete, who loved all sports, was always there for his friends, coaches, teammates, and family, and left a lasting impression with every person he met.
Pete’s leadership and sportsmanship in high school contributed to three sectional wrestling championships. As a result, Mahopac Varsity Wrestling and his family have honored his life with a scholarship fund and memorial wrestling tournament in his beloved hometown.
Since 2011, the funds generated from our annual wrestling kick-off dinner, along with your generous donations, have allowed us to grant scholarships to senior wrestlers who had plans to pursue higher education at a college or university or serve in the military. Your thoughts, prayers, and contributions have meant the world and have made a tangible difference in the lives of athletes from Mahopac High School.