A longtime, beloved Mercer County public servant and educator, former County Commissioner Pasquale "Pat" Colavita, Jr. passed away Tuesday. He was 77. Colavita served more than 16 years in county government, and a total of 32 years in public office.

"It has been my sincere pleasure and distinct honor to have been able to represent and serve all of our 12 municipalities," Colavita said when he announced his retirement in March 2021. "I have always respected and cherished elected office by putting forth good government for the people."