George Fosdick, Former Ridgefield Park mayor, has died at the age of 82
George Fosdick, the former Ridgefield Park mayor who left office in 2020 after nearly 30 years in office, died Friday after battling cancer. He was 82 years old.
Fosdick served on the Board of Commissioners for 36 years, including 28 years as mayor.
"At some point you realize it's time to move on", Fosdick told NorthJersey.com, retiring in May 2020. "All the time I have left I'd like to spend with family and friends".
A post on the village's Facebook page said Fosdick's "passion for Ridgefield Park was boundless".
He was involved in the development of Overpeck Park, the report said, and supported the Ridgefield Park Preserve. In 2018, Fosdick advocated for the construction of a pedestrian bridge over the New Jersey Turnpike to allow residents access to Overpeck Park.
"His vision has shaped the very fabric of our city", the report said.
Mauro Raguseo, mayor of Little Ferry, called Fosdick a "mayor's mayor", a friend and mentor.
"When I became mayor of Little Ferry 17 years ago, he gave me great advice and showed me by example how to be a true public servant", Raguseo said, "and all these years later I continued to seek his opinion because I valued it so much.
Fosdick was a volunteer firefighter for nearly 60 years with the Ridgefield Park Truck Co. fire department. 2, was a master mason in Ridgefield Park Masonic Lodge No. 194 F&AM and an Eagle Scout. He taught history at Ridgefield Park and was known as the village historian. He also owned NJ Fire Equipment for 40 years.
"Many fondly remember his weekly hosting of the RPTV program with his beloved local trivia contest, which not only showcased his passion for Ridgefield Park's history, but also fostered a deep sense of unity among residents", the release said.
Raguseo mentioned his voice.
"It was always difficult for me to speak after him in the program", Raguseo said. "His strong voice and his messages, usually accompanied by history lessons, always captured the audience".
The village's message notes Fosdick's dedication to Ridgefield Park, saying he has shown what it means to be part of the community and how important it is to get involved.
The former mayor left "an indelible mark on the lives of the people he touched", the statement said.
One of Fosdick's favorite things to do was to walk around the village and talk to the residents.
"Many Little Ferry residents knew and respected George, and we all mourn his loss. But we also celebrate his extraordinary life and contributions", Raguseo said. "We grieve heartily for his beloved family and extended family - the entire village to which he dedicated so much of his life".
Fosdick met his wife, Susan, on a blind date in 1967 at a firehouse dance. They married the following year and eventually had three children.