Gerald T. Barbato was born in 1952, grew up in Shrewsbury, NJ and resided in Fair Haven and Middletown before moving to Wall Twp. in 1997. He was a lifelong Communicant of St. James Church, Red Bank and earned his Bachelor's Degree from Seton Hall University.

Lieutenant Barbato enlisted in the New Jersey State Police on June 27th, 1974 as a member of the 90th Class. His service with the New Jersey State Police was characterized by loyalty, fearless performance of duty and faithful and energetic devotion to the high principles of the New Jersey State Police.

Lieutenant Barbato died as a result of injuries sustained in the line of duty.

In the wake of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, Lt. Barbato was assigned to Ground Zero in New York City. Exposure to the dust and debris he encountered resulted in a cancer diagnosis. On January 16, 2023, Lt. Barbato succumbed to his injuries.

Lt. Barbato served the citizens of New Jersey for 31 years before retiring in 2004.

Lt. Barbato was survived by his wife, two sons, a daughter, two grandchildren, a brother and four sisters

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