Long-time dedicated New Jersey attorney and devoted Rutgers University alumnus, Edward J. Boccher died September 26, 2024, at his home in Hampton, NJ. A former partner at the NJ law firms of DeCotis, Fitzpatrick, Cole & Giblin, LLP; Farer Fersko, PA; Florio and Perrucci; and the New Jersey office of Mudge Rose, Ed’s focus in the law was redevelopment, land use and zoning. Ed began his legal career in the Office of the NJ State Attorney General. Ed was justifiably proud of being the first attorney to represent the Council on Affordable Housing when it was formed under the NJ Fair Share Housing Act in 1985. Inspired by his mother, Ed also had a deep interest and passion for politics and its potential to improve the lives of others this included his own political campaign for Congress in the NJ General Election for the 23rd Legislative District in 1987, an experience he always valued. Ed was born on January 7, 1955, in Teaneck, NJ and was raised in Plainfield, NJ. Ed received a J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, an MPA from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of International and Public Affairs and an AB from Rutgers College where he also proudly served as President of the Chi Psi fraternity. Ed had an undying devotion to New Jersey, Rutgers College and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights football team. A season ticket holder for many years, through thick and thin, Ed would issue his own annual RU football newsletter to friends and family detailing the prospects for the team for the upcoming season and drumming up enthusiasm. A masterful chef, Ed was at his happiest when he was cooking for family and friends. He especially loved RU game day, and his tailgate menu was a culinary feast for those lucky enough to be invited. Ed was predeceased by his beloved parents, Edward A. Boccher and Rita M. Boccher, his twin sister, Mary Boccher, his brother-in-law, Tony Frost, and his son, Ryan Boccher. Ed was immensely proud of his children, four of whom survive him: Kerry Martin (Andrew), Jacqueline Burshnic (Clarence), Murphy Boccher and Catherine Boccher; and his seven beautiful grandchildren: Averie Burshnic, Luna Martin, Beau Burshnic, August Martin, Isla Burshnic, Cora Martin and Grace Martin. Ed also leaves behind ten siblings: Geralyn Boccher, Stephanie Frost, Daria Boccher-Lattimore, Peter Boccher (Kathy), Brian Boccher (Lisa), Gabrielle Boccher (Greg Stack), Paula Robertson, Robert Boccher, James Boccher (Kristen), and Danielle Boccher and 12 nieces and nephews. A mass of remembrance will be held on Friday, October 11, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church in Raritan, NJ. In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to Rutgers University Foundation at rutgersfoundation.org/give and support a fund of your choosing in Ed’s memory.
