Former Ridgefield Park mayor George Fosdick has died

Editor's note: This is a developing story.

George Fosdick, the former Ridgefield Park mayor who stepped down in 2020 after serving almost 30 years in office, died on Friday after a battle with cancer. He was 82.

Fosdick served on the Board of Commissioners for 36 years, 28 of those as mayor.

"At some point, you realize it's time to move on," Fosdick told NorthJersey.com when he retired in May 2020. "Whatever time I have left, I'd like to spend some more time with my family and friends."

A post on the village's Facebook page said Fosdick's "passion for Ridgefield Park was boundless."

He had a role in the development of Overpeck Park, the post said, and provided support for the Ridgefield Park Nature Preserve. In 2018, Fosdick advocated for a pedestrian bridge to be built over the New Jersey Turnpike to give residents access to Overpeck Park.

"His vision shaped the very fabric of our town," the post said.

Mauro Raguseo, the Little Ferry mayor, called Fosdick "a mayor's mayor," and a friend and mentor.

"When I became mayor of Little Ferry 17 years ago, he gave me great advice and by example, showed me how to be a true public servant," Raguseo said. "And throughout the years I would continue to seek his opinion because I valued it so much."

Fosdick was a volunteer firefighter with the Ridgefield Park Fire Department Truck Co. 2 for almost 60 years, was a Master Mason at Masonic Lodge No. 194 F&AM Ridgefield Park and an Eagle Scout. He was a history teacher in Ridgefield Park and was known as the village's historian. He also owned NJ Fire Equipment for 40 years.

"George's booming voice and commanding public speaking were fixtures at countless town events, capturing the community's attention," the post said. "Many will fondly recall his weekly hosting of RPTV, complete with a beloved local trivia contest that not only showcased his passion for Ridgefield Park's history but also fostered a profound sense of unity among residents."

Raguseo mentioned his voice.

"I always had the difficult task fo speaking after him in a program," Raguseo said. "His booming voice and his message usually with a history lesson always captivated his audience."

The village's post praised Fosdick's dedication to Ridgefield Park, saying he showed what it meant to be part of a community and how important it was to get involved.

The former mayor left "an indelible mark on the lives he touched," the post added.

One of Fosdick's favorite activities was to walk through the village and talk with residents.

"So 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. "Our hearts go out to his beloved family and his extended family, the entire village for whom he dedicated so much of his life."

Fosdick met his wife, Susan, on a blind date in 1967 at a fire department dance. They got married the next year, eventually having three children.

Visitation will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. Monday at Vorhees-Ingwersen Funeral Home, 59 Main St., Ridgefield Park.

This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Former Ridgefield Park mayor George Fosdick has died