Rose Marie Heck Toms River, NJ: In Loving Memory Of Beloved Resident

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Rose Marie Heck (nee Ciccolella), 93, of Toms River, NJ, formerly of Hasbrouck Heights, who passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 7, 2026. Born in Hoboken, New Jersey, to the late Genaro and Anna Ciccolella, Rose’s life was marked by a remarkable dedication to public service, advocacy, and her community.

Rose’s legacy as a trailblazer for women in public office and her unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others will continue to resonate for generations. She made history as the first woman elected to the Hasbrouck Heights Borough Council and served as Mayor of the borough for a total of four terms across two separate periods (1988-1995 and 2008-2015). Throughout her tenure, Rose earned a reputation as a passionate and tireless advocate for her constituents, always striving to create positive change for the people she served.

Her commitment to her community went beyond local leadership. Rose served as a Commissioner on the Bergen County Utility Authority from 1989 to 1991 and as the Chair of the County Community Development Committee from 1987 to 1990. These roles reflected her dedication to improving public services and ensuring that her community’s needs were met.

Rose’s public service career reached new heights when she represented the 38th Legislative District in the New Jersey General Assembly from 1991 to 2003. During her 13 years in the Assembly, Rose held numerous leadership positions, including Majority Conference Leader (2000-2001), Chair of the Policy and Regulatory Oversight Committee (1996-1999), and Chair of the Advisory Council on Women. Her legislative work focused on some of the most critical issues facing New Jerseyans, including the Police Officers Bill of Rights, Child Abuse Prevention, Victim Advocacy, and Tax Relief.

Among her many legislative accomplishments, Rose was particularly proud of Assembly Bill No. 1301, which established a network of specialized centers across the state to address child abuse. Her visionary leadership also played a crucial role in the founding of the Audrey Hepburn Children’s House, a state-designated Regional Diagnostic Center for child abuse and neglect, located at the Joseph M. Sanzari Children’s Hospital within Hackensack University Medical Center.

Rose’s legacy is one of service, compassion, and a relentless drive to make the world a better place for future generations. She leaves behind a lasting impact on both her community and the many lives she touched throughout her distinguished career in public service.

She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and the countless individuals who benefited from her leadership and advocacy. A memorial service will be held to honor her extraordinary life and the profound contributions she made to her community and the state of New Jersey.

Rest in peace, Rose Marie Heck. Your dedication, integrity, and love for your community will never be forgotten.