Acone Dead at Age 47

Steven Acone, a Winthrop Police officer for more than 20 years and local business owner, died Wednesday after a lengthy illness.

Mr. Acone served in the Winthrop Police Department with distinction for more than 20 years, having been appointed a reserve officer in 1993 and a full-time officer in 1995. He previously served as a volunteer auxiliary officer. He was a Class of 1985 graduate of Winthrop High School where he was an excellent ice hockey player.

Mr. Acone and his wife, Bridget, owned and operated the Hot Diggity store that is a popular gathering place for residents who became big fans of their delicious hot dogs and ice cream.

Winthrop Police Chief Terence Delehanty said the officers were saddened to hear about their colleague’s passing Wednesday.

“All of our officers are feeling great sadness about Steve Acone’s passing after a prolonged illness,” said Delehanty. “He volunteered and worked for the town for many years of dedicated service. He loved hockey and coached it as well as played it until adulthood. He was a great athlete, a great person to know, and certainly took care of all the children that went to Hot Diggity. He was always very generous to the children of our police officers and we were appreciative of that.”

Winthrop Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Eric Gaynor said Mr. Acone was a member of the Chamber from the very first day he and his wife opened their store.

“Steve and his wife Bridget have been terrific members of the Chamber,” said Gaynor. “Steven was always very supportive of not just our programs but a lot of community activities. He was a tremendous guy, a great police officer, and a very nice man and he’s going to be sorely missed.”

Gaynor said it was a sad day for the town and all the people who knew this outstanding police officer, business owner, athlete, and person.

“The Chamber members are sad about the passing of Steven Acone,” said Gaynor. “Our hearts go out to his wife Bridget and his family.”