Newark, Essex County Mourning For Several Community Leaders – Patch.com

NEWARK, NJ — Newark and Essex County are mourning the recent losses of several beloved community members who had key impacts on the region.

Last week, Sen. M. Teresa Ruiz (District 29) shared a message of condolence for Samuel Okparaeke, Raul Lopez and Carmen Vega.

Ruiz, who represents Newark and Belleville, wrote:

“In the past year, our Essex County and North Ward family has experienced great loss. In the last few days, we mourn the untimely passing of three human beings who, each in their own way, made huge impacts on Essex County and Newark residents. Samuel S. Okparaeke was a consummate gentleman with a cadence of patience that could never be stirred. No matter where we asked him to lend his leadership, he stood up and said, ‘presente.’ Raul Lopez was a good man who was beloved by his family, friends and community. He was part of my staff in the early days and helped me win my first election. And last and certainly not least, we lost Carmen Vega, a phenomenal mother, grandmother, supporter and, most importantly, friend. She was a beautiful soul who, no matter where or what, was always there to help. To all of the families, we share in this time of grief with you. Our hearts send love, we send prayers and, most importantly, we aim for hope.”

Newark Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr. offered messages of mourning for Lopez and Vega.

Ramos wrote:

“The North Ward lost two very special people this week who I had the privilege of calling friends. Raul Lopez, who was a retired lieutenant in the Essex County Prosecutors Office, was one of the most colorful personalities I have ever met. Raul worked with a number of us who serve in public office and enjoyed his life and community to the fullest. Carmen Vega is one my dad’s favorite friends. She dedicated a big part of her life to working with seniors and most recently served as an aide to Council President Mildred Crump. Carmen would always greet me with a generous smile every time I walked into City Hall and ask about my dad. Both left a positive impact in the lives of so many. May they rest in peace, and until we meet again.”

Meanwhile, Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. offered a statement about Okparaeke, who was director of the county’s office of small business development.

“Sam was dedicated to Essex County, helping residents and small business owners,” DiVincenzo wrote on Dec. 24. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.”

On Sunday, Sen. Ruiz shared another message of mourning, this time for Jesus Casiano Jr.

She wrote:

“It took me a while to write this because somehow I thought that if I didn’t it would not be true. But it is, and all of our hearts are broken. Jesus Casiano Jr. left us and has passed on, but as we are all still in shock and overwhelmed with grief, we have to find a way to get back to the spirit of living that he embodied. I can’t tell you specifics about how Jesus came into my life, but when he did, he fit into our puzzle like he was always meant to be there. His love for politics and Puerto Rico were only matched by the same love of politics and the City of Newark. He was a doer, a giver and, when he laughed, his soul shook in his body. As part of Councilman Anibal Ramos Jr.’s office and my senate office, I could say that he was a consummate public servant. But our dear friend was way more than that, he was family. He would take 10 minutes to take a cell phone picture and often take longer to even tell you one detail or ask you a simple question. But that’s just how he was. ‘Avanca Jesus and get to it…’ His belief in people and his willingness to help everyone is something we could all learn from. When I would do Spanish radio or TV, he was quick to say, ‘Lo hiciste muy bien Senadora,’ reassuring me that I didn’t butcher the translation. So tonight, to my friend and brother, I say ‘Lo hiciste muy bien Jesús.’ We will forever miss you.”

Ramos wrote that he was “in shock” over Casiano’s passing.

“Jesus Casiano Jr. was a very special individual to so many. Perhaps the most popular person to ever work in my council office, his likability was based on his love and respect for others and his passion for his job. Jesus lived to serve others and enjoyed politics more than anyone I have ever met. I thank all those who reached out in the last day. It’s a testament to how many people’s lives Jesus touched. A great guy who we lost too soon. He will be truly missed.”

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