HOWELL TOWNSHIP, N.J. — Sean Acker, a 48-year-old Howell Township resident and Sergeant First Class with the New Jersey State Police, died on Wednesday, February 4, according to his obituary released by Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home. His passing has deeply impacted the law enforcement community and those who knew him as a dedicated public servant, husband, father, and mentor.
Acker was born in Abington, Pennsylvania, and raised in Howell, New Jersey. He first answered the call to serve by joining the United States Air Force, where he earned the rank of staff sergeant. After completing his military service, he continued his commitment to protecting others by joining the New Jersey State Police. His law enforcement career spanned more than 19 years, during which he proudly served as a member of the 145th State Police Class.
Throughout his career, Acker was widely respected for his discipline, leadership, and passion for physical fitness. He served as the head physical training instructor at the New Jersey State Police Academy, where he helped train and motivate future troopers. According to the Tunnel to Towers Foundation, Acker routinely ran five to ten miles a day, pushing himself to meet the demanding physical standards of his role.
Over time, the physical toll of his work led to significant medical challenges, including the need for a double hip replacement. As he prepared to return to duty, Acker experienced complications in his right leg. Ten days after undergoing a residual surgical procedure, he suffered cardiac arrest caused by a blood clot that resulted in a pulmonary embolism. He also sustained a traumatic brain injury and was later transferred to a specialized brain injury rehabilitation center in New Jersey.
Acting Superintendent Lt. Col. David Sierotowicz announced Acker’s death with great sorrow, stating that he passed away due to a medical condition resulting from a work-related injury. His death was described as a profound loss to the New Jersey State Police family and the broader law enforcement community.
Sergeant First Class Acker is survived by his wife, retired Captain Lisa Acker, and their two children, Connor and Samantha. He is also survived by his parents, Cyd and Mark Acker, his brothers, James and Grant, and many extended family members and friends. Visitation will be held Sunday, February 8, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Clayton & McGirr Funeral Home in Freehold, followed by a funeral Mass on Monday, February 9, at the Church of St. Veronica in Howell.
