Dear Editor:
This writer had the distinct honor and pleasure of meeting Robert H. Slade in 1968 upon my commencement as a county employee. Robert and I immediately became friends and this treasured friendship lasted over the decades.
Robert H. Slade was born in the Margaret Hague Hospital on May 22, 1928. At a very young age Robert found it necessary to leave high school and help support his family as his father passed. Robert then entered the service of his country and served with honor in both World War II and the Korean Conflict. He then was employed by the railroad as a waiter in the club car of the train that traveled to Monmouth Race Track, where he met then Mayor and Democratic Leader John V. Kenny. Mayor Kenny saw a quality in this young man and through his encouragement Robert was elected in 1971 as the first African American Freeholder in Hudson County. Bob held many other government posts with distinction which included the Jersey City Park Police (which was abolished in 1965), Housing Authority, first African American Deputy Register, mayor’s aide, field representative in the New Jersey Housing and finance Corporation, Assistant Administrator Hudson County Meadowview Hospital and Labor Relations Specialist, Hudson County Welfare Division from which de retired in 2008.
Robert Slade was proud that he obtained his GED as, due to family obligations had to withdraw from high school studies and went on to obtain his B.A. degree in sociology and M.S. degree in Health Care Administration.
Robert was always concerned about his fellow men and woman and he was responsible over the year in assisting many young people in obtaining employment in the government and private sectors. He was a true role model and trail blazer for the African American youth and all peoples.
May our dear friend, the Honorable Robert H. Slade rest in peace.
Respectfully,
Robert B. Knapp