Westfield Planning Board Chair Robert Newell Passes Away

WESTFIELD, NJ — As part of her remarks at Westfield's Town Council meeting on Tuesday evening, Mayor Shelley Brindle noted the passing of Planning Board Chairman and longtime resident Robert Newell, 68, on Monday night.

"Last night," Brindle said, "longtime Westfield resident and Planning Board Chairman Robert Newell passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Robert’s dedication to this community knew no bounds and I am grateful for the opportunity I had to get to know him."

She added, "I had the benefit of his warm embrace when I was a new member of the Planning Board and he patiently taught me the ropes. As a long time Westfielder, he surprised me with his openness to new ideas which only seemed to energize him. He was the consummate volunteer, a gentleman’s gentleman, a man who lived his life with honor and grace."

Newell was the owner of Robert Newell Lighting Design of Westfield.

His family is currently preparing an obituary that will go here. Gray Funeral Home is handling arrangements.

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