The oldest mayor in the United States died Saturday night at age 100 and served his second term in New Jersey.
Born in 1924, Tinton Falls Mayor Vito Periro served in the US Navy with his brothers during World War II, and worked as a civil engineer through his retirement. Still, he did not discourage his age from trying new things – running for the mayor, etc.
In 2017, he was elected mayor of Tinton Falls, Monmouth County, New Jersey, at the age of 93.
His campaign was supported by vitality that made it almost impossible to believe that the candidates were nearly 100. He went door-to-door and handed out thousands of flyers and walked a lot during his time, so it appears he was clearly wearing two pairs of shoes. Tinton shines the spotlight on the late mayor.
He defeated incumbent Mayor Gerald with just over 300 votes. He was re-elected for the second term in 2021 at the age of 97, but quickly crushed rumors about three peats when he turned 100 in September when he announced he wouldn't run again.
“They say I am the oldest mayor in the country,” Periro said. He spoke to NJ.com After he was re-elected. “I feel pretty good. I think everyone in the borough feels good. They were happy with me this morning.”
“For the past eight years he has been enthusiastic and always strives for the people he represents,” said Charles Telefenko, administrator of Tinton Fallsborough. Written in a statement.
“For those who know him personally, he was not just a leader, he was a friend, leader and inspiration. His warmth and love for the borough will never be forgotten.”
New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy celebrated Periro's dedication to his country and his beloved community.
“I am deeply saddened by the death of Vito Perillo, the oldest mayor in our country, at the age of 100. As a veteran of World War II and mayor of Tinton Falls, Vito is a must-have. “We leave an unparalleled legacy of service. Our hearts come out across his loved ones and the entire Tinton Falls community,” Governor Filmy said. I wrote it on a social media post.
