By Andrew Martins, Managing Editor
The sudden passing of Sgt. Frederick Robert Wacker, 43, left members of the Hillsborough community in shock over the weekend, as family members and colleagues come to terms with their loss.
Police officials said Sgt. Wacker has been with the Hillsborough Police Department for 18 years when he passed away on Saturday, Nov. 19.
Prior to joining the police force, Sgt. Wacker received his bachelor’s degree at St. John’s University and his master’s degree at Boston University.
During his time on the force, officials said the Montgomery resident had served many roles within the department. Given his specialization in the investigation of traffic accidents, he was a long-serving member of the Somerset County Crash Analysis and Reconstruction Team and the supervisor of the township’s Traffic Bureau. He was also a member of the Traffic Officers Association of Central and West Jersey.
According to police officials, Sgt. Wacker received 14 commendations over the years, including an award for his role in the apprehension of armed homicide suspects. He also received 34 letters of gratitude from members of the public.
“Our community is deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Sgt. Fred Wacker,” Mayor Frank DelCore said. “He was a dedicated public servant and a long time outstanding member of our Hillsborough Police Department. He will truly be missed.”
Sgt. Wacker is survived by his wife of 15 years, Jennifer (nee Garthwaite), his sons Jeremy and Dominic, his parents Frederick and Deborah Wacker Jr., of Roselle Park, his paternal grandmother Josephine Wacker, of Forked River, and his maternal grandmother Grace LaMonaco, of Roselle Park.
“Our deepest condolences go out to his wife Jenn and his two boys,” the mayor said.
According to a posting at the Hillsborough Funeral Home website, a Mass of Christian Burial will be held in Sgt. Wacker’s honor on Wednesday, Nov. 23 at 10 a.m. in St. Charles Borromeo Church, 47 Skillman Road in Skillman, with the burial to follow in Rocky Hill Cemetery.
Visitation for family and friends will be Tuesday, Nov. 22, from 4-8 p.m. in the Hillsborough Funeral Home, 796 US Hwy 206 in Hillsborough.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Hillsborough PBA 205 to be used for the education of Fred’s sons, Jeremy and Dominic.
