Trenton – Senator Nellie Pou issued the following statement today on the passing of long-time Paterson Congressman Bill Pascrell Jr.:

“Congressman Pascrell was the consummate public servant, tirelessly working for the people of his beloved City of Paterson and the rest of the towns in his district. He was a friend and mentor to me, scores of other public officials, and to his constituents. He was a fighter for the democratic values we all hold dear.

“Across a long and decorated career, the congressman was truly someone who never forgot where he came from. He was Paterson through and through. He knew its streets, its barbershops, its restaurants and its parks. He also knew its people, and knew their needs.

“This is a very heart-wrenching loss for my family, as he personally touched all of our lives.

“I have known his family, his children, and grandchildren for many, many years. My heart goes out to Elsie, William (Bill III), Glenn, David, and the entire Pascrell family. Congressman Pascrell was one of a kind, and he will be sorely missed by those whose lives he touched, across our state and our nation.”