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An obituary for Palombo said he died with his wife and family by his side on Saturday, Jan. 27. He was the 15th mayor of North Wildwood, serving the city from 1994 to 2005.
The city said Palombo rescued North Wildwood during some difficult times.
"Mayor Palombo brought his indomitable optimism and incredible energy to the Office of Mayor," the city said in a news release. "During his tenure, Mayor Palombo initiated many of the special events and parades that are now beloved traditions in North Wildwood.
"He was the ultimate ambassador for North Wildwood and was always eager to grasp any chance to help promote the City, including marching in the Mummers New Year's Day Parade in Philadelphia."
Several people posted their condolences on the city's Facebook post announcing Palombo's death.
"Aldo was NW's greatest ambassador and prominent in revitalizing [the] North Wildwood tourism industry," one person wrote. "Aldo always was ready to shake a hand and welcome you to join in the fun."
"A life well lived," another commenter said. "Supported the law enforcement community without reservation. Godspeed."
The city also credited Palombo with helping raise property values and creating more ways for residents to participate in North Wildwood's government.
Current Mayor Patrick Rosenello said Palombo was one of his mentors.
"I first met Mayor Palombo as a very young man when I was friends with his youngest son," said Mayor Rosenello. "He was the first person to ask me to run for public office in North Wildwood and we served together for my first two years on City Council.
"From my very first memory of him all the way up to and through his time as Mayor, he was the consummate gentleman.
"North Wildwood owes much to Mayor Aldo Palombo and his memory will live on for many generations in this city that he did so much to shape.”
Palombo moved to North Wildwood in 1963 and opened up Palombo’s Pharmacy, according to his obituary. He also was passionate about beach conservation and restoring the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse.
A funeral mass was held for Palombo on Thursday, Feb. 1 at the Church of the Resurrection for St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in Marmora.
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