With saddened hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, Louis Principe, at his home on Monday, June 24th, 2024 age 95. Known to many people as “Poppy Lou”, he leaves behind his cherished family; daughters Jeanette Principe and Kathy Bincoletto (John). He was the best grandfather to Brian Bosworth (Erin) and Dana Bincoletto and great-grandchildren Austin and Kaitlyn Bosworth.
A lifelong resident of Hoboken NJ, Louis was born in his home at 415 Monroe Street Hoboken on February 23rd , 1929, across the street from the Sinatra family. Louis attended Hoboken Public Schools where he met his wife Frances (nee: Sozio). They attended the Class of 1947 prom and married in 1948; they were together for 54 years until her passing in 2002. Also, predeceased by his mother Mary (nee: Niemiec), father Albert Principe, stepfather Nicholas Spina, and his sister, Lillian Iannacone (Sammy). A sister-in-law Gloria Buonarota and brother-in-law Frank Favata survive him along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and his Port Authority family.
Louis began his career as a night watchman on the Hoboken Piers in 1953. He was employed by The Port of New York Authority rising to the position of Executive Transportation Coordinator before retiring in 1995. Lou was given the nickname “Big Lou on B2” at the World Trade Center. Lou worked for the Executive Offices where he met many dignitaries, entrepreneurs, and politicians. It wasn’t unusual for him to chauffeur executives throughout New York City as well as the state offices in Albany and Trenton. Mayor Robert F. Wagner even invited Louis and Frances to be his guests at a benefit concert by Frank Sinatra at Carnegie Hall. On the day of the 1993 World Trade Center Bombing, Louis assisted the NYC Fire Dept as his office and vehicle fleet were located near the explosion.
Many fond memories were made but nothing greater than the memories made with family. He was affectionately known as Uncle Lou, Poppy Lou, and the guy who walked around Hoboken like a boss. Louis will be remembered as a genuine hometown guy who never shied away from speaking his mind and doing it his way.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, June 30th, 2024, beginning at 2:00pm and concluding at 6:00pm.
The Funeral mass will be offered at St. Francis RC Church in Hoboken on Monday, July 1st, 2024, beginning at 10:00am. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in North Arlington, NJ.
In lieu of flowers, a donation in memory of Louis to the American Diabetes Association would be appreciated. https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/by-mail