He was well known throughout the state's fire service community as the owner of NJ Fire Equipment Company.  He also possessed many other credentials, including volunteer fire chief, fire commissioner, mayor, school teacher, and much more. George Fosdick, 82, lost his battle with cancer in May.

George Fosdick, “left an indelible mark on the lives he touched,” was a remark on the Ridgefield Park Facebook page. He was a down-to-earth guy.

A former history teacher, Fosdick loved Ridgefield Park, and enjoyed walking around town and talking to residents. He would tell you what existed on those local corners, many years ago, and took on the role of Village historian. His love for the village was endless.              

Fosdick was elected to the Village Board of Commissioners in 1984, serving a total of 36-years, with 28 of those years as mayor. He was a 60-year member of the volunteer fire department, assigned to Truck Co. 2. He served as department chief in 1982. In addition, he was a member of the New Jersey Deputy & Battalion Fire Chief's Association.

Fosdick met his wife, Susan, on a blind date at a fire department dance in 1967. They were married in 1968. 

The ex-mayor was a member of the Masonic Lodge No. 194 F&AM Ridgefield Park. He was an Eagle Scout and remained active in boy scout's activities his entire life. In addition, he was an Elder for the First Reformed Church of Hackensack, where his family supported a homeless mission. 

His booming voice captured his audience's attention, whether in the classroom or a community event. As a history teacher, and love of country, he supplied many history lessons as part of his speeches.    

Nearby Little Ferry Mayor Mauro Raguseo 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 through the years I would continue to seek his opinion because I valued it so much. 

Mayor/Chief Fosdick was the proud owner of NJ Fire Equipment Company for 40-years. He considered every employee part of the family. His selection of dedicated employees, possessing a love for the fire service, made the business special. Many employees are active or retired firefighters and officers. As his business has expanded, those employees will continue the success of the company serving the fire service community. 

“At some point, you realize it's time to move on,” Fosdick told North Jersey.com when he retired from public service in 2020. “Whatever time I have left, I'd like to spend some more time with my family and friends.”