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Joseph Sahid posted a condolence
Monday, July 22, 2024
George was the undoubted leader of our Rutgers Beta Theta Pi fraternity. When the brothers routinely went wild when "Shout" was played on the record player during parties, he started surreptiously confiscating the record. The brothers quickly replaced it, and George promptly confiscated it again. This went on and on.
He was my idol and his conduct led me to a long participation in student government. I always assumed he would be a leader in public service.
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Lauryn (Wilson) and Patrick Gilbride posted a condolence
Monday, May 27, 2024
We are so very sorry for the loss to the Fosdick Family.
Please know that you all continue to be in our thoughts.
So sorry that we could not make it to the services.
So many fond memories of Labor Day parties and fire department speeches, as well as deep admiration for the his friendship to my parents.
The Board of Directors are forever united.
Rest in peace.
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Valerie Law uploaded photo(s)
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
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My sincerest condolences to the Fosdick family. George was a wonderful, caring and giving man who always had a great story to tell. Thank you for sharing him with all of us. My daughter Michele and Grandson Will are members of FDRP Truck2 with George. I have so many great memories of the 4th of July, Annual FD Installations and FD events which usually included a speech from George that never failed to move me and leave a lasting impression, Thank you George, for all the guidance, and leadership skills you have given to my family and so many others. "Never give up on doing the right thing" Rest in Peace. With so much gratitude and love, Valerie Law
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MICHELE LYNN posted a condolence
Tuesday, May 21, 2024
George's enduring spirit of gentleness, selflessness and passion continues to inspire us all. His optimism and wisdom radiated through his daily routine, while his kindness, wisdom and friendliness were felt by every life he touched. George was the Chief of the Ridgefield Park Fire Department in 1983 when I joined as the first female member. Although he may have regretted it a few times, I will always remember and be grateful for the encouragement and support he gave me as I navigated this uncharted path. He instilled a passion in me to always help others and to selflessly serve as a volunteer as it was a privilege and an honor to do so. As the one privileged to step into his role as FDRP Relief Association Secretary 10 years ago, I strive each day to uphold the powerful legacy of compassion and service he left behind as I assist our members and their families in times of need.
I have so much admiration for you George and I am eternally grateful to have had you in my life, and my children's lives... you will remain in our thoughts and conversations as we carry you with us, always. Rest in Peace George.
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Sue Evans posted a condolence
Friday, May 17, 2024
Teacher, beloved son of George and Louise, a grand sense of humor. What a gift he was.
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Carly Lynn posted a condolence
Friday, May 17, 2024
This is never easy, but this one hurts deep. I've known you since I was born. We always used to say I was born at the same time you became Mayor, what a great year '92 was! I ran around the firehouse as a kid and you watched me grow. You always came to town functions, you watched sporting events I played in all through high school. I never joined the Fire Department but you did not treat me any different for it. I loved the stories you'd tell, you have taught me so much! I went off to college and you kept an interest. You checked the weather and informed me, you gave me a history report of Bradford, PA & every time I came home you asked how it was going and would tell me more stories - about Bradford and home. When we would go to Wildwood for the convention, everyone would be looking at the trucks and I always went right to the corner to find you at your booth just to have another conversation with you!! I've said it since I was old enough to understand and I'll say it again as you look down on us all, please look after my family (blood & non) as they travel to and from every call, and while fighting every fire they encounter.
When I think of RP, I thing of you! You have left a mark on this town that will NEVER be forgotten.
Thank you for a wonderful 32 years of knowing you, of wonderful stories, lessons and of just being you. REST EASY MR MAYOR, you can continue to yell at me for calling you that anytime, you'll always be my mayor!
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PETER DUBLANICA posted a condolence
Friday, May 17, 2024
I just learned today of the passing of George and wanted to remember him warmly and extend my condolences to Suan and all of the family. George was my U.S. History I and U.S. History II teacher in high school. He was one of the exceptional teachers who knew how to teach with you and not at you. His were classes I never minded attending.
He made them fun as well as educational. When the new high school was built next to Veteran's Park, I heard that George insisted on a ground floor classroom at the end of the hallway so if there was ever a fire in town during classes, he'd be able to make a quick exit and catch up with the other volunteer firefighters. The morning after celebrating graduation the whole night before, a group of friends and I showed up knocking on his back door at about 6:30 in the morning. I think we just wanted to say "Hi" but in typical Mr. Fosdick fashion, he invited us in, and Susan made us all breakfast. George told me he always smiled when driving past my house and seeing my mom hang her British flag alongside the American flag on holidays. He was everything that's positive about a true "townie". He participated, he enjoyed, and he contributed to people's lives. I was introduced to George Fosdick as a teacher but have always regarded him and will always remember him as a friend. See you after recess George!
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Joanne Bloch posted a condolence
Thursday, May 16, 2024
George was a very wonderful mayor of Ridgefield Park, a staunch supporter of veterans. May he Rest in Peace and God give comfort to his family.
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Ruth Mahan posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Mr fosdick was my history teacher at RPHS ( me,, class of 1967) in “ the trailers” Rest In Peace mr fosdick .. I remember him well
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Susan Hutchinson posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
George was my oldest cousin, we all referred to him as Mickey. Not sure why. My mother was his godmother and after my mom passed George and my dad became pen pals of sorts. George got in touch with me after my two sisters passed, it was great to talk to him after many years. Just sorry it couldn't have lasted longer. What a great man.
With Love and Admiration, Susie Hutchinson
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Jude Houghton posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
Class of 1970, I enjoyed being in George's American history cIass. Shortly after high school I married and moved away. In 1995 I moved back home to our wonderful village and bought Mary Clark's home on Grand avenue. My chevy blazer was still sporting NC plates in the driveway . George came to the door in his fireman blues for their annual donation drive. I answered saying "hey aren't you the mayor now?" He quickly quipped back after not seeing me in 25 years; "Yeah and aren't you a Houghton girl from Euclid avenue?" He was amazing! 5 years later he officiated my second wedding in my new backyard.
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Deborah Vogt-Perkel posted a condolence
Wednesday, May 15, 2024
The Vogt Family extends their deepest condolences to the Fosdick Family. May Ross Vogt, Sr and George join together in heaven wearing their white shoes.
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Dan Dougherty posted a condolence
Monday, May 13, 2024
Mr. Fosdick was always a gentleman and a scholar and in a waining world that’s an admirable position to take. His public service and commitment to family set him apart in the best ways.
My condolences to George, Monica and the the entire Fosdick family and extended family on the passing of a leader.
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Pat Cacioppo posted a condolence
Monday, May 13, 2024
Blessings from the Cacioppo family. My mother Florence was a dear friend of George's; growing up and graduating High School with him. George also knew my father Paul and Uncle Joe well. Thank you for your love and service to the Village of Ridgefield Park. Rest in Peace!
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Susan Vena posted a condolence
Monday, May 13, 2024
I've known Mr. Fosdick (yes, he told me to call him "George", but out of respect, I could not) since my earliest memories as he was my Dad's (Vincent Vena) best friend. He was not only my role model, but became my mentor. I went to Rutgers because of Mr. Fosdick, I stayed at Rutgers because Mr. Fosdick made a trip to New Brunswick to talk to me, I became involved in RP activities (Shade Tree Com., Bd of Rec, Tercentennial, Village Pride, and more) because of his strong sense of community and what it means to volunteer. He helped me navigate through some tough issues and always was ready to help. Like everyone else he has touched, I will miss him. My deepest condolences to Mrs. Fosdick, Karen, Sally, and George and all other family.
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Robin Pieretti posted a condolence
Monday, May 13, 2024
I am so sorry to hear of George's passing. He was a customer of mine at the bakery, picking up donuts for the boys at the firehouse. My condolences to Susan, Mrs. Mayor, as I called her, and the entire Fosdick family.
Robin Pieretti
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Whit Conley posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Our sincerest condolences to the Fosdick family. George was a true leader, patriot, and stalwart of Ridgefield Park. He lived a life of service to the community and its families.
Well Done George - God Bless
Whit & Darlene Conley
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Maria Glander Malinski uploaded photo(s)
Sunday, May 12, 2024
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I grew up in RP - RPHS Class of 1967 - the last class to graduate from the "old" high school. My older brother and sister were in RPHS together but underclassman. George was RPHS Class of 199
RP and George were synonymous - you could not think of one without the othe. I have fond memories of RP and so many of my fellow friends and neighbors. It was a special place and time to grow up in RP 1950's - 1960's
One membory - I was working at an office on Challenger Drive that was having construction work done on a floor above us and there were a number of minor and false fire alarms. Mr. Fosdick and fire trucks always arrived in moments. I was standing outside and he came over to me and said "Maria, where are the rest of your coworkers (we had a place we had to stand if there was a fire alarm outside so count could be made). I told him the bosses said so many false alarms office staff could not leave....having two nephews as volunteer firemen in Dumont and growing up RP I ignored the "order" and walked down the flights of stairs. I had a old cell phone and George said get your boss on the phone. I did and in minutes the other 100 employees came marching down the stairs". I don't know what George said but I did hear when the fire bells go off you leave and you wait for us to let you back in or else we will shut the whole complex down." A man to be admired and who took his life's work of protecting his fellow citizens seriously. So many great July 4th parades. The days are long but the years are short" May your memory be a blessing to your family and all of of us from RP who loved the town and you. Thank you for your service to all of us.
Maria Glander Malinski
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Ralph Lella posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
I worked at Ridgefield Park High School for 35 years. Because of my time there i had many experiences with George as a parent of 3 athletes as a supporter of the athletic programs and also as an original committee member of the Athletic Hall of Fame. He was Ridgefield Park in every way and served the town , schools , and people in any way he could. I would very much wish to offer condolences to his wife and children and would be honored to make a donation to the volunteer fire department in his name. A good man, american and friend , rest in peace George .
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John woods posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Mr. Fosdick was my advisor as student council president in 1970. He was the most important teacher and mentor in my early life.A friend of mine and my family. He would always bring up that my dad gave him a nixon poster when we would meet on july 4th. I will miss him always .
John Woods
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William n Elizabeth Morton lit a candle
Sunday, May 12, 2024
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Loving prayers to Sue and Family during this difficult times.
He was truly a gentle soul.
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Pierre Desrochers posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
The world has lost a true giant in George. Full of wit and wisdom, his vibrant personality made every encounter intriguing. He was one of the most fascinating individuals I have had the privilege to know; his intellect paired with kindness was captivating and unforgettable. Many will remember him as the humorous soul who brought light into many lives, especially at NJ Fire Equipment - his sanctuary. His personal narratives about Downeast Maine won't be forgotten but cherished by those he shared with. May he rest serenely now.
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Alexander Bulay posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Alexander Bulay RPHS 1966
OMG! Can't believe that in my memory post I erroneously referred to Susan as "Pat". I am so sorry, Susan. My only excuse is that two days ago I had surgery on an aortic aneurism and I'm on a few too many pharmaceuticals at present.
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Alexander Bulay posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
Alexander Bulay, RPHS Class of 1966
I first met "Mr. Fosdick" when he was my home room teacher at RPHS. Unfortunately I never had him as a history teacher as my interest and love of learning about our nation's past has always been intense. Early in George and Susan's married life they rented an apartment on Hazleton St. from a friend of mine and we would sometimes run into each other. When I was elected to the Board of Ed at age 21 (proud to have been a part of the Board that removed School Supt. Ervin Arbo from Ridgefield Park), George would always offer words of encouragement. Having managed the Oritani Theatre in Hackensack for about 8 years I left RP to purchase a small movie theatre in upstate New York, but I managed to stay informed about George's successful business career as well as his historical tenure as Mayor of the town he loved. Sight unseen, my admiration of this man only grew over the years. Circa 2012, having adopted four "special needs" brothers through the NY State Foster program, my wife and I planned a large outdoor party at our home in Lake Luzerne, NY.....partly because we wanted to show our sons that there were plenty of good people in this world that would never hurt them. I sent George an invitation (RSVP) and he called me within a few days. We chatted for a few and he apologized that they couldn't make it because July 29th was Pat's birthday. I deliberately hadn't told anyone that 7/29 was also my birthday, so I asked George if Pat knew that she was born on Benito Mussolini's birthday. He replied, "Believe me, I remind her every year." George kindly gave me his address on Teaneck Rd. and told me to come visit when I next could make it down to NJ. Well, sometimes when man plans, God just laughs. Until now one of the biggest regrets in my life was passing up an invitation to Patrick Buchanan's home in northern Virginia years ago when I felt I shouldn't leave my theatres on a busy weekend. Now, I deeply regret not having made time to reconnect with a man who was not only a local icon and hero, but an old school true American hero, the kind that we so desperately need more of. George Fosdick, you done good, very good. Rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to Pat and the entire family. We've all lost a great man.
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Ed Hillermeier posted a condolence
Sunday, May 12, 2024
I remember one time that we went to a fire department parade in MT. Holly. Of course we took truck #2 and George drove. We brought hot dogs, so when we got in line to march George started a fire in a garbage can.
A policeman yelled at him to put the fire out George said "I can't" the cop said "why not you are a fire truck". George said "because my truck is a ladder truck, not a hose company. .
The cop walked away shaking his head and we ate our hot dogs.
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Arelys Constenla Martinez posted a condolence
Saturday, May 11, 2024
In the profound sorrow following the passing of Mayor George Fosdick, we remember a man whose wisdom gleamed in his humorous wit and thoughtful speeches. His welcoming nature and vibrant passion for our community shone through each fireside chat at the library, and his participation at St. Francis Church events even though he was not a parishioner will always be remembered. George’s heartfelt address during Veterans Day, Memorial Day and all ceremonies always meant so much to me. Alongside Susan, George's unwavering dedication stitched us together as one community. He was a humble Mayor as he walked down our Village Streets and greeted you with a smile. We mourn an irreplaceable loss; may he rest eternally in peace.
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Edie Giordano posted a symbolic gesture
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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To the Fosdick Family, I had the pleasure of working for George for a few years. He was one of the best bosses I've ever had. We had great conversations and laughed a lot. Loved his stories of American History, especially about World War II. I will cherish my time in his presence. Rest easy George. Take a walk on the boardwalk in Wildwood, but "Watch The Tramcar Please"! My heartfelt sympathies to Sue, the kids and the rest of the family and friends. Affectionately, Edie Giordano
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Mike Giordano uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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Mike Giordano - I started with George at New Jersey Fire Equipment Co. 31 years ago. I was a novice as sales work, but George saw something greater in me than even I did. He taught me everything I know about selling equipment and eventually I became the Sales Manager of the company. He was like a father to me and treated me as family always telling me "Family First". He guided me through my quest for politics which has been my greatest joy. He was and always will be my mentor, my friend and my guide to the end. God Bless, Mr. Fosdick!
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Wahl family uploaded photo(s)
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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The “Board of Directors “ are together once again.
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The Wahl and Scully families lit a candle
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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Our sincerest condolences to the Fosdick family. Thank you for sharing this great man with so many. Susan and George were family to the Wahls. You are in our prayers. The “Board of Directors “ are together again.
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Helen Mills RPHS '65 Ryan posted a condolence
Saturday, May 11, 2024
I was Jr. or Sr. At RPHS when a new YOUNG teacher came on board, young being the operative word. I didnt have Mr. Fosdick as a teacher but was aware of his excellence in History lessons, classmates advised us, he made hustory fun and loved to generate a debate. As mayor he expressed condolences to RPHS families who lost loved ones, visiting the funeral parlor to do so. George and my late brother Edwin were at opposite ends of the political system, they debated whenever running into one another (on the street) Eddie did give accolades to George on his history knowledge.
RIP George, yours was a job well done! Your family can be so proud!
A Memorial Tree was planted for George Fosdick
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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We are deeply sorry for your loss ~ the staff at Vorhees-Ingwersen Funeral Home Join in honoring their life - plant a memorial tree
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The family of George Duncan Fosdick uploaded a photo
Saturday, May 11, 2024
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Michael Alberque posted a condolence
Saturday, May 11, 2024
There are too many great memories having known George. Way too many to list. He was the Chief of the Fire Department when I was a Captain and was Fire Commissioner when I was the Fire Chief. Always there with words of wisdom. A great firefighter, great commissioner but most importantly a great person. He will definitely be missed in my life and I’m sure many others. Rest in peace George.
Donald J. Ingwersen - N.J. Lic. No. 4157
59 Main Street | Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660-1609 | Phone: (201) 342-2350