Senator Anthony Bucco, CEO and Long-Time Legislator, Dies at 81

On Sep 17, 2019

Anthony R. Bucco, R-25, who used his expertise as a successful CEO to address New Jersey’s challenges during an accomplished 24-year career in the state Legislature, died Monday following a heart attack at age 81, according to his family.

Bucco, who had represented the 25th Legislative District in Morris and Somerset counties since 1995, was the Senate Republican Conference Leader.  As the owner and CEO of Baker/Titan Adhesives in Paterson, Bucco was also a longtime NJBIA member who was actively involved in the organization’s efforts to reinvigorate manufacturing and improve New Jersey’s business climate.

“He was a great friend to the business community, always lending an open ear and an open mind when looking for solutions,” said NJBIA President & CEO Michele Siekerka. “Some of those solutions would be drawn upon from his own career in business. And most importantly, he was a calming influence in an oftentimes overcharged political atmosphere.”

Bucco began his four decades of public service as an alderman in Boonton Township (1978–83) and later served as mayor (1984–89) and as Morris County freeholder (1989–92). He served in the General Assembly from 1995–1998 before winning his state Senate seat.  He was the highest-ranking member of the influential Senate Budget & Appropriations Committee for nine years and was Minority Budget Officer until this year. He was a member of the Senate Select Committee on Economic Growth Strategies and also served on the Senate Labor Committee and the Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee.

For 41 years, Anthony Bucco served the people of Morris County and the State of New Jersey at all levels, from the Boonton Council to the State Senate, Gov. Phil Murphy said. “He took on issues small and large, including one of his last laws, to ensure that schoolchildren learned ways to prevent and escape sexual abuse, a bill I was proud to sign just two months ago. A dedicated public servant and successful businessman, Senator Bucco brought a perspective and commitment to his work that elevated our public discourse.”

Peter Okun, director of marketing and public relations at the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program, Inc., said, “Senator Bucco spared no efforts in executing his transformational agenda. He leaves behind a rich legacy of a great leader.” Bucco was a past recipient of the ‘Made in New Jersey’ Honor Roll given to individuals who have made a difference for manufacturers within the state of New Jersey, Okun said.

A lifelong resident of Boonton, Bucco also served in the U.S. Army Reserves from 1957–1965. Bucco is survived by his wife of 60 years, Helen Jayne; his son Assemblyman Anthony “Tony” M. Bucco; and several grandchildren.

Funeral arrangements were still pending at press time.

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