Joseph J. Ryglicki

Joseph “Rick” J. Ryglicki, 73, of North Bergen, passed away on a bright Friday afternoon at approximately 5:00 P.M. at home surrounded by his loving family. Born April 12, 1947 in Teaneck, New Jersey, he was the son of the late John Ryglicki and Wanda (Walasek) Ryglicki. Joseph, or Rick, as he was affectionately known to his friends and family, is survived by his beloved wife Frances Mansfield. Devoted father to Jonathan M. Ryglicki and his wife Amanda, and Jason M. Ryglicki, J.M.C. and his wife, Elizabeth. Loving grandfather to Willa and Harrison. Dearest brother to Walter P. Ryglicki. Rick also survived by his niece Haley Wargacki, and his nephews David Ryglicki, David Mansfield, and Robert Mansfield. He would consider, and be considered, family to many more. Rick was an alumnus of St. Peter’s Preparatory School ‘64, and the College of the Holy Cross ‘68 before enlisting in the United States Army. After his honorable discharge, he attended Fordham University School of Law to obtain his Juris Doctorate. He was admitted to the New Jersey Bar in 1972 and began his legal career as an associate at Milton, Keane and DeBona. Subsequently, he began his first law firm of Ryglicki & Pompliano, before setting off on his own. His career in public service spanned over five decades, beginning with working for the Maintenance Department of the Township of North Bergen, and ending with a term as the Surrogate of Hudson County. As an attorney, he served as the first Municipal Public Defender for North Bergen, and as the Municipal Attorney for the North Bergen Board of Education, the Weehawken Board of Education, Paterson Board of Education, Hoboken Board of Education, and the Township of Weehawken. He was a fixture in local and state politics for nearly sixty years, beginning when he was just seventeen years old. In addition to his love of politics, Rick was a restauranteur, avid skier, traveler, and reader. He was a lifelong Giants fan and would often recount attending games as a child with his father and brother at Yankee Stadium. Despite his numerous accolades and accomplishments, his family will miss his sense of humor and love of life most of all. He will be remembered by all in his professional, social, and family circles as a true friend and mentor. Even during times of social distancing, anyone who has suffered a loss deserves love and support more than ever before. Let the family know you care by leaving treasured memories, thoughts and prayers on the Tribute Wall.