Amateur radio had a great loss with the passing of John Paul Burgio of North Caldwell, W2JB and his wife, Jane. John had an extensive background in electronics: After earning a degree in electrical engineering from Lehigh University he worked for the Federal Communications Commission inspecting ship radios and transmitters. During World War II, as a second lieutenant, John served with the 977 Signal Service Command in the Mediterranean theater. Later, John served in Greece setting up radio stations to report to Allied headquarters.
Years after, John worked for RCA in Philadelphia and later became president of a family-owned tire business in West Caldwell.
A champion in promoting amateur radio, John was recognized for the lifetime award by the American Radio Relay League and by the Quarterly Century Wireless Association. In addition, he was honored by Sen. Barry Goldwater for his work in freeing American civilian vessels being held for ransom in Indonesia.
More recently he helped in restoring Grover Cleveland’s birthplace.
Politically: Jane, John’s wife, was a former New Jersey Secretary of State under Gov. Thomas Kane. She also served in the New Jersey state assembly
