On January 5, 2024, the community of North Haledon mourned the loss of a beloved figure, David Christopher Stanziale, aged 57, after a courageous battle against cancer. Born in Livingston, NJ, David had been a cherished resident of North Haledon for the past 23 years, leaving an indelible mark on the community and beyond.
David’s journey began with a memorable childhood on Oak Avenue in West Orange, where he formed lifelong friendships. His summers spent in Normandy Beach and Mantoloking were filled with joy, enjoying boating and water skiing. A dedicated student, David attended Seton Hall Prep, Villanova University, and Seton Hall School of Law, paving the way for a remarkable legal career.
A member of both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bars and a Certified Criminal Trial Attorney, David started his legal career as a clerk to the Honorable Leonard D. Ronco, J.S.C., of the Superior Court of New Jersey, Essex County. His path led him to become an Assistant Prosecutor in Essex County, where he successfully tried numerous cases and proudly served as a police academy instructor.
David later entered private practice alongside his father and brother before establishing his own practice in North Haledon. In this capacity, he served as a legal advisor to the Municipal Alcoholic Beverage Control Board for the City of Orange and was the Attorney for the North Haledon P.B.A. His practice primarily focused on defending police officers in civil and criminal matters arising from the exercise of their official duties, as well as handling Civil Rights violations involving police personnel.
However, David’s true passion lay in public service, notably as a municipal prosecutor for various towns, including North Haledon, Pompton Lakes, Franklin Lakes, Hawthorne, Bloomingdale, and Wanaque. His dedication to representing each municipality with pride earned him an Honorary Membership Silver Life Card. As a counselor and educator to local police departments, David’s influence extended beyond the courtroom, leaving a lasting impact on the communities he served.
Described as a master of his craft, an exceptional trial attorney, and a man with unparalleled knowledge of the law, David Stanziale was known for his humility, modesty, ethics, and loyalty. A true gentleman, fair and kind, he treated everyone with respect and dignity, leaving an enduring legacy of integrity.
Outside the courtroom, David found solace in various activities, including working out, biking, skiing, attending movies and theatre, traveling, and sharing good meals with friends. Sundays were reserved for his cherished Green Bay Packers, a love he passed on to his three sons, creating enduring memories of shared football afternoons.
David’s love for his alma mater, Villanova University, and their basketball team was a family affair, witnessing their NCAA Championship victory in 1985 as a student and again in 2016 when his son Christopher achieved the same feat.
David Christopher Stanziale leaves behind a community deeply saddened by his departure but profoundly grateful for the positive impact he made during his 57 years. His dedication to justice, love for family, and commitment to public service will be remembered for generations to come.
