Oscar Omar Ricalde

In Loving Memory of Oscar Omar Ricalde

Oscar Omar Ricalde, age 45, a resident of Cedar Knolls, passed away on December 27th, 2023. Born on March 13, 1978, in Passaic, NJ, Oscar was the beloved son of Bertha Ricalde (nee Diaz) and Oscar Ricalde, and the cherished brother of Helen Ricalde.

Growing up in Passaic, Oscar attended Our Lady of Mt. Carmel and Passaic High School. His outgoing personality and charm were infectious, earning him the title of "Mr. Personality" during his senior year. Even after leaving Passaic, Oscar remained deeply connected to his hometown, returning to mentor students and coach Little League, a heartfelt way of giving back to the community he held dear.

Oscar's commitment to service began when he enlisted in the Marine Corps Reserve after high school. A proud graduate of Rutgers University in New Brunswick, NJ, he was focused on his higher education and formed friendships that became family. These friendships would eventually become his circle that had a bond that stood the test of space and time.

Upon completing his undergraduate studies, Oscar entered the New Jersey State Police Academy, graduating as a member of the 130th State Police class on June 28, 2002, Badge #6208. This marked the beginning of his remarkable and honorable tenure proudly wearing the blue and gold. Over 21 years of dedicated service, he was eager to experience all the NJ State Police had to offer and undertook 29 assignments, including work in specialist units such as the Metro North Unit based out of Irvington, the Training Bureau as an instructor at the New Jersey State Police Academy, the Office of Emergency Management, Recruiting, and was part of the creation of the Diversity & Inclusion Unit, while serving as its Assistant Unit Head. He also was deployed to Puerto Rico in support of Operation NJ Pride. However, his most rewarding moments were with his fellow road troopers in various Troop B stations throughout his career. His care and concern for others in the organization was demonstrated in the additional roles he took on as a Trooper Coach, where he trained new troopers out of the academy, and as a Regional Peer Counselor, where he mentored and encouraged other troopers in need. He closed his career leading his beloved troopers as Lieutenant and Station Commander of the Washington station. A recipient of the Morris 200 Club and the Community Service Awards from the State Troopers Unions, Lt. Ricalde's exceptional leadership and selflessness have impacted the state and beyond. Proud of his Peruvian heritage, he also served as an executive board member of the New Jersey Latino American Trooper Society (NJLATS), a nonprofit organization committed to building the relationship between law enforcement and Latino communities, where he coordinated fundraisers, charity programs, and outreach. Lt. Ricalde’s unwavering commitment, positive influence, determination, and devotion to helping those in need have left an indelible mark on our community.

Beyond the NJ State Police, the most important job he held was as a loving father to his two children, daughter Mia and son Marco, whom he shared with his former wife, Rowena Ricalde. The joy he found in spending time with his children and creating countless wonderful memories with them was unmatched. He was often seen around town cheering on the kids at school and sports events or coaching softball and baseball teams for Mia and Marco, building a strong network within the Hanover Township community.

Oscar Omar Ricalde will be deeply missed, but his legacy of service and dedication to his community and loved ones will continue to inspire us all.

Visitation Services to celebrate Lt. Oscar Omar Ricalde's life will be held on Friday, January 5, from 4-9 pm at Funeraria Alvarez, 66 Passaic Avenue, Passaic, NJ 07055. A funeral mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 6, at 10am at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 10 St. Francis Way, Passaic, NJ 07055. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org in Oscar’s honor. May his soul rest in eternal peace.