The Honorable Walter N. Colbath, Jr., 86, of Palm Beach Gardens, Florida passed away on Tuesday, May 4, 2021. He was born on August 21, 1934 to Walter N. Colbath, Sr. and Vesta Swenson Colbath in Evanston, Illinois. Judge Colbath attended Broad Ripple High School and graduated from Indiana University where he played football and golf. He received his law degree from the University of Miami in 1965, after moving to Florida in 1959. Judge Colbath served in the Army and the Marine Corp retiring as a Major.
Judge Colbath was passionate about public service and politics, beginning his legal career as the first Public Defender of the Fifteenth Circuit in 1966. He left the Public Defender’s office in 1972, and later successfully ran for Councilman, then Mayor of the Village of North Palm Beach.
In 1984, Governor Bob Graham appointed Judge Colbath to the Circuit Court Bench. During his judicial career, he presided over Civil, Criminal and Family Divisions. He served as Chief Judge from 1997 to 2001, and led the Circuit in many outstanding achievements. After his retirement, he continued to serve the legal community as a successful Circuit Civil Mediator.
Judge Walter N. Colbath, Jr. was a gentle giant and was highly respected in the legal community. He was also a dedicated family man and raised three children, Walter N. Colbath, III; Jeffrey Colbath; and Stephanie Colbath. Judge Colbath was predeceased by Judy, his beloved wife of 38 years and his oldest son Walter N. Colbath, III. He is survived by his son Judge Jeffrey Colbath (retired); his daughter Stephanie Colbath; and daughter-in-law, Kristin Colbath. He is also survived by his five grandchildren, Walter Newall Colbath IV, Cameron Colbath, Kelly Colbath, Naval Airman Riley Colbath and Jason Colbath.
There will be a memorial service at Howard-Quattlebaum Funeral and Event Center on Friday, May 14, 2021 at 4:30 PM, 754 US Highway 1, North Palm Beach, FL, 33408. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Alzheimer’s Community Care, Hospice of Palm Beach County or charity of choice.
