Political And Baseball Writer Nick Acocella Of Hoboken Passes

HOBOKEN, NJ — Hoboken-based political and baseball writer Nick Acocella has died at age 77. Sympathies poured in from the current and past governor of New Jersey, as well as many others who'd encountered his gentlemanly mien and love of all things political.

Acocella edited a statewide political newsletter called Politifax, but didn't vocally take sides.

His obituary said he died at home, and the cause was cancer.

The obituary noted, "After spending one year as a high school teacher in Bergen County, he enjoyed an eclectic, unconventional career at the nexus of politics, sports and journalism. "

On Sunday, Gov. Phil Murphy wrote on Facebook, "‪No one covering Jersey politics was more Jersey than Nick Acocella. He was that rare breed who could handicap all the important races, share his favorite pasta recipe, and analyze the Yankees’ lineup — all within the same chat. He will be deeply missed."

And former Gov. Chris Christie noted Acocella's TV show, "Pasta and Politics," in which he combined two of his many passions:

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla wrote, "Nick’s contributions to New Jersey’s political scene, as well as his love for baseball were immeasurable. He will greatly missed."

According to the obituary, Acocella was born in Jersey City, grew up in West New York, and graduated from St. Peter’s Prep in Jersey City and University of California Berkeley. He has written several books about baseball.

He is survived by his wife Laura, children Bart of Washington, D.C. and Francesca Rebecca Acocella, Esq.; grandchildren Caroline and James Acocella; a niece, Thea Cimmino, and nephew Anthony Cimmino, and other family and friends. Read more here.

They will plan a memorial service "whenever feasible," said Insider NJ.

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