A New Jersey community is in mourning following the loss of one of their own.
Eric Wise, a detective and father of two, died at age 44 on Friday, Feb. 14, days after he obtained injuries from a tragic fall, according to his online obituary.
A GoFundMe page set up by loved ones to aid Wise’s family amid their loss described him as “a devoted husband to Antonia and the proud father of two beautiful daughters, Abigail and Kaelen.”
“His commitment to his family, his work, and his community is evident in the countless lives he has touched through his compassion and dedication,” the tribute continued.
Born in Philadelphia, Wise was an Eagles fan who “loved his life with his wife, two daughters and two dogs,” according to his online obituary.
The obit further detailed that Wise’s children “were his pride and joy and will forever carry the lessons of strength, kindness, and perseverance that he has imparted to them.”
In a statement to NJ.com, Atlantic County Prosecutor William Reynolds said that Wise “was not only a great detective, but an even greater human being” who “served the Atlantic County Prosecutors office with honor and integrity.”
“His wisdom and kindness touched so many lives. He will be dearly missed but never forgotten,” he continued.
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Reynolds declined to answer questions regarding the circumstances of Wise’s fall, per the local outlet.
The Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office did not immediately respond to PEOPLE’s request for comment.
In lieu of flowers, Wise’s family has requested that donations instead be made to the college funds of Abigail and Kaelen at www.ugift529.com, codes S69-Y9W or J7K-H9M, respectively.
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