Remembering Steve Acone: Winthrop Police Officer Truly Will Be Missed by All Who Knew Him

Winthrop Police Officer Stephen Acone, who died last Wednesday at the age of 47 after a lengthy bout with cancer, was one of those rare individuals who brought joy and warmth to all who knew him.  Stephens had a brain tumor 14 years ago that was removed, but it tragically returned early last year and eventually claimed his life.

Since childhood Stephen wanted to be a Police Officer and he realized his dream by first working in the Winthrop Police Auxiliary and later in the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department before ultimately joining the Winthrop Police Department, where he became a reserve officer in 1993 and a full-time officer in 1995.

Stephen was a graduate of the Winthrop High Class of 1985 where he was known as a gritty, determined, and skillful player for the Viking hockey team. He was unafraid to mix it up in the corner with larger opponents and was an integral member of those fine WHS teams of that era. His family was always very supportivve of his ice hockey endeavors, especially his sister, Donna, who would accompany her parents to the rinks, sometimes in the early morning hours, to watch her younger brother excel on the ice.

Stephen was known as “Punky” by his many friends. He developed a kinship with his boyhood friends and teammates, especially Steve Rogers, a current sergeant in the Winthrop Police Department, and Jimmy Feeley, a Winthrop Police officer, who was a loyal teammate and friend. Steve also enjoyed a great friendship and tremendous mutual respect with Winthrop Police Chief Terence Delehanty.

Stephen owned and operated the Hot Diggity hot dog and ice cream shop on Crest Avenue for the past nine years with his wife Bridget. As Chief Delehanty noted, Stephen was well-known as a very generous person who always treated the children of police officers and others very well upon their visits to his Hot Diggity store.

Stephen was a great and loving uncle to his sister’s three sons, who loved him dearly throughout his life. He would often take them on family trips that were thoroughly enjoyed and will be forever cherished by them.

Stephen was a beloved Winthrop resident and we join with the community in offering our condolences to his sister, Donna, his wife, Bridget, and everyone who came to know this wonderful person, respected police officer, and generous business owner.