Cory Booker’s Father Passes [VIDEO]

Cory Booker's father has passed away from a recent stroke.

Cary A. Booker's death at the age of 76 in Las Vegas was announced In a statement issued by the mayor's office. “Many people in our city came to know and love Cary Booker. Mayor Booker's father was an inspiration to him, and someone the mayor has often credited with being a principal reason for him entering public service."

Cary Booker was afflicted with Parkinson's Disease as well.

Cary Booker was married to wife Carolyn for 49 years and worked at IBM for most of his working life where he and his wife were two of the company's first black executives. He was active in the civil rights movement and was frequently cited by Cory Booker as being the inspiration for his pursuit of a public service career. Cary Booker was born in North Carolina before moving to New Jersey in 1969.

Booker tweeted out a message on Friday morning.

Cory Booker's public events have been canceled; arrangements have not yet been announced. His father's death comes less than a week before voters go to the polls in New Jersey's special Senate election. Booker leads the election in polls over challenger Steve Lonegan (R).