Two judges are elected

David Tomlinson and Rob Pattison will be St. Joseph County’s newest judges.  The two candidates claimed victories in Tuesday’s general election, as Colon-based attorney David Tomlinson topped Christine Yancey of Mendon for probate judge. Meanwhile, Rob Pattison, a lawyer for a Sturgis firm, will preside over St. Joseph County District Court after eking out a win over Park Township attorney Matt Davidson.  Tomlinson, 62, will succeed Thomas Shumaker as Probate Court judge, while Pattison, 47, will replace Bill Welty. Both Shumaker and Welty are retiring at the end of the year, marking the first time in recent memory two of St. Joseph County’s four judicial positions were up for vote simultaneously.  The judges-elect will be sworn in during ceremonies in December and begin their six-year terms January 1.