In Tribute to Robert F. (Bob) Jago

It is with regret and a profound sense of loss that all Port Authority Retirees and the Port Authority Retirees Association Board (PARA) have lost a standout colleague and friend in the passing of Robert F. (Bob) Jago.  Unfortunately, Bob recently lost his greatest competitive challenge in succumbing, Thursday, April 24, 2008 to a short-term illness.

At the time, Bob was a respected member of the PARA Board of Directors, serving as its Secretary.  He was not only a most effective administrator and communicator for the Board, but was notable in his keen sense of focus on the responsibilities of the Board and its mission in recognizing and responding to the needs and interests of all Port Authority retirees. He was a valuable, trusted nexus for the Board in his closeness to a multitude of both retired and active PA employee associates and friends. Bob was a solid individual; noteworthy for his obvious recognition of duty with unwavering rectitude and honor. He brought with him a serious, positive attitude laced with a refreshing touch of appropriate humor.    

His Port Authority career spanned almost 40 years, commencing with his start as a Police Officer, advancing to various administrative positions with the Human Resources, Rail Transportation and Law Departments.

Bob was an accomplished athlete, erect in posture and lithe both in bearing and movement.  He was readily recognized for his competitive zeal both in the PA Softball League and in golf.  On the diamond he was distinguished by his competitive determination balanced with an unfailing practice of fair play. An avid fan and player of the game of golf, he capably served as Director of the Annual PA Golf Tournament.

In many ways Bob was the very personification of the Port Authority, a magnificent “institution” itself.  He was upright with outstanding moral character, thoroughly responsible to sense of duty, ever active and conscientious in duly fulfilling service to the public, professional in conduct, a wholesome family man – and looking back – rightfully proud of his Irish heritage, all blended with a keen and apt sense of humor.

Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with Bob’s wife, Pat, and his family. Bob will be sorely missed throughout the Port Authority family – he served it with pride and distinction; not to be forgotten, his memory will endure.

Services for Bob are as follows:
Wake – Sunday, April 27th 2-6 pm; S. W. Brown & Son Funeral Home, 267 Centre St., Nutley, NJ 07110, (973) 667- 0875.

Funeral Mass:
Monday, April 28th, 10 am, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, 120 Prospect St., Nutley, NJ 07110, (973) 667- 2580.