The Oakland County 44th District Court judges and staff are proud to announce that a permanent memorial wall highlighting the life and career of the late 44th District Court Judge Jamie Wittenberg will be unveiled this spring at the courthouse.
“It is so important that Judge Wittenberg’s service be highlighted and preserved in this way,” said Chief Judge Derek Meinecke. “He made a real difference in the lives of so many who appeared before him, and we are all so grateful that he was our judge.”
After a distinguished career as an assistant prosecutor for both Wayne and Macomb Counties, Wittenberg was elected in 2008 to serve as the 45-A District Court Judge for the city of Berkley. In 2015, after state legislation merged the 45-A District Court with the 44th District Court serving Royal Oak, Wittenberg became a judge of the newly created 44th District Court, serving Berkley and Royal Oak.
His positive impact was felt immediately. Wittenberg endeared himself to staff and community members with his kindness and friendly nature, while spearheading the expansion of the highly successful Sobriety Court program and introducing a Teen Court that was aimed at supporting at-risk youth.
In May of 2019, Wittenberg was diagnosed with glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain cancer. Combining traditional medicine with a disciplined keto diet and intermittent fasting, Wittenberg was able to survive three times longer than his initial diagnosis suggested. Amazingly, despite multiple brain surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy, he continued to handle his full docket. Wittenberg would often remark that he believed he was a better judge having gone through his illness, because he gained even greater perspective and found an even greater connection with those that appeared before him.
“He maintained his dignity and decency despite the ravages of his illness, showing that when he swore his oath to serve Royal Oak and Berkley, he meant it with every ounce of his being,” said Meinecke.
After Wittenberg’s passing on November 21, 2022, an effort to preserve his legacy was initiated by a collaboration between the Royal Oak Historical Society, the Berkley Historical Committee, the Wittenberg Family, and the 44th District Court judges. All funding for the memorial wall came from private contributions from family, friends, attorneys, and judges who wanted to pay tribute to Wittenberg’s career in service.
“Judge Wittenberg left a legacy of unfailing commitment to service,” said Judge Andrew Kowalkowski, who was appointed in March 2023 to fill Wittenberg’s seat on the bench. “This wall will stand as a reminder to all who visit that his vision of compassionate justice still guides our court.”
The contributions received have exceeded the original project goal, inspiring the Royal Oak Historical Society to channel their energy into a new opportunity to continue Wittenberg’s positive impact for generations to come.
“The generosity and gratitude expressed by so many through donations shows there is more good that can be done in Judge Wittenberg’s memory,” said Tom Toggweiller, president of the Royal Oak Historical Society. “Next month we plan on launching a drive to establish a scholarship fund that will support Royal Oak and Berkley students interested in public service, law, government, history, or civic engagement. Our aim is to encourage the next generation of community leaders in Judge Wittenberg’s honor.”
A dedication ceremony will take place at Royal Oak City Hall, located at 211 S. Williams Street in Royal Oak, on Wednesday, May 27, at 5 p.m. followed immediately by an unveiling at the 44th District Court, 400 East 11 Mile Road in Royal Oak. All are welcome to attend.
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