Hoboken Man Dies A Month After His Faithful Dog Passes Away

HOBOKEN, NJ — One of Hoboken’s most popular residents has passed away at the age of 94: Vincent Wassman.

A lifelong resident of Hoboken, Wassman served in World War II and the Korean Conflict, and worked as an adviser to the city’s administration, hmag.com reported Thursday.

HobokenGirl.com posted a tribute to Wassman – who the publication called “arguably the most well-known man around town” – and his faithful canine companion, Cole, who passed away last month. (Read the full article)

Hoboken Councilwoman Tiffanie Fisher offered the following words about Wassman on social media:

“On a day that was supposed to be cloudy, one of Hoboken's most cherished people left this world today and wanted to make sure the sun was shining on all of us. I have gotten to know Vinny over the past couple of years and to say he will be missed is an understatement. A life fully lived, he served in both the Army and the Navy, in both WWII and the Korean War, and lived his entire 94 year life in Hoboken. I saw him last sitting on the bench on Washington St. and 7th with Jennifer Giattino, like he often did, just two days ago. A mind that was sharp as a tack even though his body was beginning to fail him, he asked me about my rabbits, how my campaign was going, and then gave me a kiss and said "love you". Losing his best friend Cole a month ago, who stood by his side for over 10 years, took a lot out of him. And I think the one comforting thought that I have is that he is once again reunited with his best friend as well as he soulmate Nona. My heart is breaking for all who knew and loved him, to the entire Wassman family and to the many neighbors who made Vinny part of their Hoboken family. Thank you for your service, Vinny. You will be forever missed.”

Mayor Ravi Bhalla also offered a message of condolence, calling Wassman "larger than life."

The mayor wrote:

"Vinny dedicated his own life to giving back to his hometown and his country, most notably serving in both World War II and the Korean War. He had tremendous pride for Hoboken, and up until his last days, kept giving back to his community. I'm posting these pictures of Vinnie from just a couple weeks ago, at a ribbon cutting down the street from his home. Even though his health was declining, he couldn't say no to supporting a new local business opening up, which said so much about his character. More than anything, Vinny was someone that you genuinely wanted to be around, from his common greeting - "how are you old friend" to his always upbeat outlook on life. There were few people who cared as deeply for his city, neighbors and friends than Vinny, and we will always remember him. I offer my condolences to his family and will keep them in our thoughts and prayers."

Councilwoman Jennifer Giattino penned the following message about Wassman:

"I had the privilege of spending many days with Vinnie Wassman and his family. There are no words that can describe the loss our community is feeling but the joy he has left in so many of our hearts is something that we all have to be grateful for. Thank you for everything you have done. You exemplify what every Hobokenite should strive to be. Everyone that had the privilege of knowing you, even if it was for a moment became a better person. Thank you Vinnie for everything and I’m so happy that heaven is a place that gets to experience your life now. Vinnie you truly are bigger than life."

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