Church Square Park Gazebo Dedicated to Former Deputy Clerk

Three generations of Hoboken mayors honored former deputy city clerk John DePalma Wednesday night, during the opening of the 23rd annual Church Square Park Summer Concert Series. 

DePalma, who died last year after battling a brain tumor, was the founder of the series and city spokesman during the Pasculli Administration. DePalma was 59 years old.  

Mayor Dawn Zimmer dedicated the gazebo in Church Square Park to DePalma Wednesday night, with members of the public and DePalma's friends and family present.

Wednesday night's ceremony was lead by City Clerk Jimmy Farina, who worked closely with DePalma for many years. 

Former Mayor Dave Roberts, who was in office from 2001 to 2009 and was succeeded by former Mayor Peter Cammarano, said that DePalma had "tremendous influence" and worked hard—behind the scenes—to make Hoboken a better place. "There are many places in Hoboken's history," Roberts said, "that John had a great role in." 

The city's historian, Lenny Liuzzi, praised DePalma for his involvement with the Hoboken Historical Museum and the Hoboken Public Library.

Although Zimmer did not know him well, she said she'd miss him and his "wonderful spirit." 

Former Mayor Pat Pasculli, who said he grew up with DePalma in the neighborhood around Church Square Park, asked the audience there to make sure to remember DePalma's spirit when visiting the park.

"Whenever you gather in the park," Pasculli said, "take a little moment to say a silent prayer for John."