RINGOES, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County officials honored lifelong resident John Barton Case this month, celebrating his 100th birthday and a century of life rooted in the community.
The Hunterdon County Board of County Commissioners presented Case with a proclamation during its March 17 meeting, recognizing his contributions and legacy in the county where he was born and raised.
Case was born March 13, 1926, on his family’s farm in Ringoes and has spent his entire life in Hunterdon County.
“Mr. Case’s life tells the story of Hunterdon County across generations,” said Commissioner Director John E. Lanza. “From growing up on a working farm to witnessing a century of change, his experiences reflect both the history of our region and the strength of the people who have shaped it.”
As a young man, Case helped maintain the family farm alongside his brother, Rex, alternating high school attendance so one of them could remain home to keep operations running. His early years reflected a time when farming relied on horse-drawn plows and local roads, including Route 179, were still unpaved.
Over the years, Case continued farming while also serving the community as a school bus driver, becoming a familiar figure for generations of local families.
Officials noted his long-standing civic involvement, including recognition as the oldest living West Amwell fireman and the oldest Hunterdon County 4-H member. He also shared a passion for racing, co-owning a dirt race car driven by Al Tasnady and Jim Delaney.
Case and his wife, Norma, recently marked 75 years of marriage. Together, they raised four children and now have eight grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.
County officials said Case continues to enjoy gardening, spending time with family and following his favorite sports teams, including NASCAR, the Philadelphia Phillies and the Philadelphia Eagles.
The county extended congratulations to Case for reaching the milestone and thanked him for his lifelong contributions to the community.
