Shivangi Sinha
When Chris DeCesare left for college in 1984, his father, Vito DeCesare, was immensely proud of his achievements. However, just a few months later, when Chris confided that he was struggling with something unusual, Vito wasted no time visiting him on campus. During his visit to his son’s dorm room, he reportedly sensed an unexplainable presence, something that left him unsettled. In Netflix’s ‘True Haunting’ episode titled ‘Erie Hall,’ Vito opens up about what his son allegedly experienced, his own initial skepticism, and how his perspective evolved after witnessing the alleged strange occurrences firsthand.
Vito DiCesare Spent a Night in His Son’s Dorm Room
Vito DeCesare had always encouraged his son, Chris DeCesare, to excel and had instilled in him the drive that made Chris a talented running athlete. Having been an athlete himself, Vito understood the opportunities sports could offer, and he took pride in seeing his son follow in his footsteps. When Chris was accepted into SUNY Geneseo, Vito was overjoyed. He personally dropped him off and was excited for the new chapter in his life. A few months later, in January 1985, Chris called Vito, expressing that he was struggling and not feeling well. Known for being rational and scientific, Vito had always dismissed ideas of ghosts or hauntings. Still, sensing his son’s distress, he decided to visit.
Upon arriving at Chris’s dorm room, he immediately noticed the strain on his son. That night, Vito lay down on a mattress on the floor to stay close. In the middle of the night, he allegedly felt a presence creeping around him. It wasn’t until December 1985 that Chris shared the full details of his experiences. Vito later discovered that an ancestor on his wife’s side had documented the life of Thomas Boyd, the man whose grave Chris had repeatedly passed during his runs. The connection between this historical account and Chris’s alleged experiences seemed impossible to ignore, leaving Vito with a mix of disbelief and astonishment.
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Vito DiCesare Feels Blessed to be Surrounded by His Kids and Grandkids Today
Vito DiCesare’s life has always revolved around his family. Alongside his wife, Patricia, he has raised three children — Chris and two daughters. Even today, the DiCesare family remains close-knit. Vito cherishes the time spent with his children, grandchildren, and even a great-grandchild, Sylvie. Family gatherings, shared stories, and simple moments, such as watching sports or enjoying a meal together, are the cornerstones of his world. Before dedicating himself fully to education, Vito was an accomplished athlete. His passion for running took him to events such as the 200-meter finals at the New Hampshire State Championship track and field meet, where he displayed the same drive he would later encourage in Chris.
Athletics not only shaped his physical abilities but also informed his life philosophy of discipline and striving for excellence. Professionally, Vito served as Superintendent of Schools at Beacon City Schools, shaping the futures of countless students through leadership and mentorship. He is a graduate of Newburgh Free Academy and St. John’s University. Yet, even amidst accomplishments, his greatest pride comes from watching his family thrive and witnessing Chris and his siblings carry forward the values he holds dear.
