Jim Pavese: Defender on the Ice; Champion of Causes

Jim Pavese is no stranger when it comes to helping out someone in need. As owner of the Park Lounge, Pavese has held his fair share of charitable events, but this Sunday, retired NHL player and ex- New York Ranger will strap on his skates and take to the ice to support yet another good cause, the Kings Park Commack Alumni Hockey Game.

Pavese is what the people of Kings Park call a true Kings Parker. Born to parents Bella and Jimmy Pavese in San Remo section of Kings Park, Pavese was one of three boys. Dad was a Suffolk County police officer. They attended St. Joseph Parish where they also received their education, which his parents believed was the best option for their boys. They later went on to St. Anthony’s where the boys carved out their niches in the world of hockey with Pavese showing the most talent and discipline for the sport.

Pavese left St. Anthony’s in his sophomore year and moved to Canada, where in 1979 he was drafted to the NHL to play as a defenseman for the St. Louis Blues.

In 1991 Pavese retired from hockey and returned to his hometown of Kings Park. He teamed up with his brother-in-law and bought the building, which once housed Danny Sheehan’s Bar and called it The Park Lounge. It has become a local favorite for friends to meet and socialize as well as gathering place for events such as St. Baldrick’s fundraiser which this year raised more than $40,000

This is what Pavese is known for – a true desire to help those less fortunate. Smithtown Councilman Ed Wehrheim describes Pavese as "a true Kings Parker."

"No matter where Pavese is, his heart is always in the Kings Park community. His total involvement in Kings Park civic organizations and charitable events makes him a very valuable asset to our community. As a third generation Kings Parker myself, I’m honored to call Jim Pavese my friend," said Werheim.

Wehrheim’s statement is illustrated by Pavese’s work with the Kings Park Chamber of Commerce, St. Baldrick’s Foundation, NHl’s Gift of Life and Make a Wish Foundation.

Pavese, explaining why he stays in Kings Park says, “ I haven’t met everyone yet.” Pavese, his wife and four children enjoy the charm of Pavese’s hometown.

“It’s like a small town in a fast moving modern world. Kings Park embodies an older world quality.  When someone needs help or is having hard times, people come together. The Kings Park Parade was such an example of this; it was multi-generational, family-oriented and so respectful of those older people in our town who are so deserving of our respect. It was wonderful.”