Please consider honoring Chuck’s memory by donating to the Garabed “Chuck” Haytaian Memorial Scholarship Fund. Tax-deductible proceeds will benefit scholarships and capital improvements.
From WRNJ President and General Manager Norman Worth
“Chuck was part gunslinger, part teddy bear. He could have the loudest or softest voice in the
room. While he was never a member of the Rotary, the service club’s motto “Service Above
Self” was a good description for Chuck Haytaian. Chuck lived his life in service to his family,
his church, his community and his country.
“His long association with WRNJ Radio began with his weekly talk show “Chatting with Chuck”,
which gave our listening community an inside look at the world of New Jersey politics, the
players, and “how the sausage was made”. His charisma, wit, and deep understanding of the
workings of government made his program both informative and entertaining. And after his
retirement from New Jersey politics, once serving as Speaker of the NJ Assembly, he graced
the WRNJ microphones again with our News Director Joyce Estey and Independence mayor
Bob Giordano for a regular appearance on “The Local Impact”. Once again, his insights, and
intelligence, were compelling.
“Perhaps his crowning achievement as a Warren County Freeholder (now Commissioner) was
the founding of Warren County Community College. Chuck knew what the promise of a well-
educated workforce would be, and his dream has proven out. Creating a WCC scholarship in
his name is an entirely appropriate way to honor his legacy and I would encourage others to
contribute to it, as I have.
“And while Chuck was a force to be reckoned with in his political career, his priority was
always family. He and Joan raised great kids, and the way they expressed themselves at his
memorial service was proof of that. To borrow a title from a Tom Wolfe novel, Chuck was “A
Man in Full”.
From WRNJ News Director Joyce Estey
“Garabed “Chuck” Haytaian—was a man of conviction. When there was an issue to be addressed, Chuck looked at it through the lens of his truth. Co-hosting WRNJ’s Local Impact with Chuck and his very good friend Independence Twp. Mayor Bob Giordano, made for an interesting dynamic. While Bob patiently asked guests questions, Chuck would listen intently, fire up his guns and lob shots intended to bring clarity or defense, but never a fatal blow. I believe his bigger than life bluster, was ultimately benevolent; wanting the greater good for the community, state and country he loved. It was my privilege to work with him and learn from him.”
