IN LOVING MEMORY OF

James Aloysius

James Aloysius Dunn Profile Photo

Dunn

Aug 31, 1943 — Sep 24, 2025

Obituary

James "Jim" Dunn, 82, of Haddon Township, NJ, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 23rd, 2025. A tall, affable man at 6'4" with a ready smile and infectious enthusiasm, Jim lived a life filled with family, friendship, and service. His legacy is one of love, mentorship, and a zest for life's adventures, from his distinguished 40-year career as a college professor to his joyful retirement spent golfing, traveling, and doting on his grandchildren.

Born in 1943 in Haddon Township to James A. Dunn Sr. and Mary Dunn, Jim grew up as an only child, shaped by his parents' faith, discipline, and encouragement. A standout at Camden Catholic High School, he was voted class president and graduated with honors, earning a full scholarship to LaSalle College. He later studied in Switzerland, Belgium, France, and Germany and earned a PhD in political science from the University of Pennsylvania, setting the stage for a remarkable academic career.

Jim's life took a serendipitous turn when he reconnected with Bernadette Angelucci, his high school sweetheart, after her time in a convent. Married in June 1970, they embarked on a lifelong adventure together, raising three sons—Michael, Bryan, and David—and building a close-knit family. Jim often said, "Life has been a great trip with a wonderful woman I'm lucky to have," and took pride in their seven grandchildren, all living nearby, allowing him and Bernadette to be doting grandparents.

Jim's professional journey began as an assistant professor at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, followed by a return to his roots as a tenured professor at Rutgers University. There, he chaired the Political Science and Public Policy and Administration Departments, wrote two influential books—*Miles to Go: European and American Transportation Policies* and *Driving Forces: The Automobile, Its Enemies, and the Politics of Mobility*—and served as chairman of the South Jersey Transportation Advisory Committee. His time as a visiting scholar in Belgium, France and Germany enriched his work and fueled his love for travel and languages, becoming fluent in French and German.

Beyond academia, Jim's heart lay in helping others. He mentored countless college students, guiding them through challenges, and contributed to his community through the Indian Guides, Boy Scouts, and Little League. His impact was profound, with former students often recalling his support during their most critical moments. In retirement, Jim joined the Haddonfield 65 Club, where he forged new friendships, enjoyed golf outings (boasting two holes-in-one in 1987 and 1993), and engaged in charitable activities.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Bernadette; their sons, Michael (Karin), Bryan (Meredith), and David (Robin); and grandchildren, Margaret (20), Charlotte (18), Gavin (17), Julian (14), Beatrice (14), Juniper (12), and Hannah (10). He was predeceased by his parents, James A. Dunn Sr. and Mary Dunn. His pride in his family shone brightly when speaking about how each of their sons successfully built a professional career reflecting Jim's values of service and achievement on their own terms and around their own passions.

Jim's life was a testament to measuring success not by wealth or power, but by the simple joys of family, friendship, and helping others. He looked forward to good health, watching his grandchildren grow, and perhaps achieving a third hole-in-one—a "trifecta" for a golfer with a 14 handicap and a passion for the game.

A funeral mass will be held on October 16th at 10 am at St. Vincent Pallotti Church, located at 901 Hopkins Road, Haddon Township, NJ 08033. The mass will be followed by a celebration of Jim's life at 11:30 am in the banquet hall of the Taproom Grill at 427 West Crystal Lake Ave, Haddonfield, NJ 08033.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Haddonfield 65 Club 110 Rhoads Avenue, Haddonfield, NJ 08033 care of Abe Ferdas.

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Funeral Services

Funeral Mass

October
16

Thursday

Starts at 10:00 am

Celebration of Life

October
16

Thursday

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