11/02/2026
IN MEMORIAM
Sergeant Gennaro Cherico, Jr.
October 28, 2026
It is with deep regret to announce the passing of former Saddle Brook Police Department Sergeant Gennaro Cherico, Jr. Sergeant Cherico passed away at the age of 84, on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
Sergeant Cherico was appointed to the Saddle Brook Police Department on April 10, 1970, and promoted to Sergeant in 1980. Sergeant Cherico served as a Detective Bureau Supervisor and a Patrol Supervisor.
Sergeant Cherico served honorably and faithfully as a law enforcement officer for the Township of Saddle Brook for over 26 years.
After retirement he resided in Barnegat, NJ, and later moved to Florida where he lived for 29 years. He enjoyed spending time with his friends, traveling and golfing.
Gennaro is predeceased by his wife Rosemary Plaia, of 32 years, and Lorraine Jones, his 2nd wife of 29 years. Sincerest sympathies to his three children, Debra Marra, Gennaro Cherico III, and Dawn Buchak. Gennaro is also survived by his son-in-law Marc Buchak, daughter-in-law Laurie Cherico Baker, and seven grandchildren.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
All members of Saddle Brook Police Department (both past and present) extend our sincere condolences to the family and friends of Sergeant Cherico during this most difficult time.
In honor of Sergeant Cherico and to mourn his loss, all township flags are lowered to half-staff and mourning bunting is hung from the front of the police station building to show that Saddle Brook Police Department is grieving the loss of one of their retired brother officers.
