Belleville Mourns Daniel Rafferty, Beloved Athletic Advocate

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Belleville is mourning a familiar face in the town’s athletic community: Daniel Rafferty.

The Belleville Recreation Department announced Rafferty’s death Tuesday on social media with a heartfelt message of condolence:

“We are very saddened to share news of the passing of Daniel Rafferty today. Danny had been a mainstay in Belleville athletics throughout his entire life. He was a player, a coach, and an advocate for our kids. We cannot put into words how important Danny was to the Recreation Department and children of this town. We share our deepest condolences with the entire Rafferty family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Tom Agosta, municipal department head of recreation, wrote that he was “completely devastated” by Rafferty’s passing.

“Beyond work, I considered Danny to be one of my best friends,” Agosta said. “The Recreation Department will never be the same without him. Danny, we all love you. Rest in peace my good friend.”

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