Politics & Government

Longtime Kinnelon Judge Retires

Judge John G. D'Angelo held his final court session Dec. 20.

After 33 years, Judge John G. D'Angelo retired officially Saturday and was honored by the Kinnelon Council for his years of service at the council's reorganization meeting Monday.

Andrew Wubbenhorst was appointed to a three-year term as a new municipal judge, but was not yet sworn in, as he said he must be sworn in by a superior court judge. D'Angelo was not present at Monday's meeting.

D'Angelo was appointed in 1978. The Kinnelon resident "has served this community well and has displayed the highest example of character, ethics, morals and unselfish service over his 33 years as municipal court judge in the Borough of Kinnelon," according to a proclomation read by Mayor Bob Collins at the meeting.

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"Judge D’Angelo is known for his high principles according to the law when performing his duties, but also memorably and fondly known for his quick wit and astuteness when the occasion warranted a lighter moment," Collins said.

Councilman Ron Mondello said he had appeared in court before D'Angelo and praised him for his patience.

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"His patience with defendants far exceeds the size of this room," Mondello said. "He would listen to every single thing that a defendant had to say and weigh very carefully what the defendant had to say."

Councilman Andrew SanFilippo agreed and said "He is a great man, he's a good friend" and that D'Angelo was good to Kinnelon.

In his retirement, D'Angelo plans to spend time with his family, which includes his wife, Betty, two sons and four grandchildren.


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