Frank W. Kneipher Jr.

Frank Kneipher Jr., 86, of Hazlet, NJ, passed away on January 13, 2024 at Bayshore Medical Center, Holmdel. He was born on July 30, 1937, in Westfield, NJ. Frank was a selfless and family-oriented individual with a great sense of humor. He was known for his friendly nature and always made those around him feel welcome. Frank had a deep love for his family and cherished spending time with them. He is survived by his son, Frank Kneipher III; daughter-in-law, Jerilyn Vernickas-DiGangi; daughter, Justine Kneipher; son, William Kneipher (wife Nancy); sister, Joyce Kneipher Steinberg (husband Ken); grandchildren: Frank Kneipher IV (wife Amy), Pamela Kneipher Hettinger (husband Matt), Emily Kneipher, Douglas Kneipher, and Andrew Kneipher. He is also survived by his great-grandchildren, Coleton Hettinger and Dylan Hettinger. Also numerous nieces and nephews, and a dedicated friend Gail Peterson. Frank was preceded in death by his parents, Frank Kneipher Sr. and Eva Filiciello Kneipher; his wife, Catherine Marice Shea Kneipher; sister, Harriet Kneipher Kirsch; and his loving companion, Marianne Goffredo. He graduated from Essex County Vocation Technical High School in 1956. Upon graduation, he proudly served in the United States Air Force from 1956-1959 when he was honorably discharged. Upon discharge, Frank went to work as a plumber with Plumbers Local 24 in Springfield, NJ. He worked as a plumber from 1960 until his first retirement in 2000. Immediately after retirement, Frank started working as a part-time plumbing inspector for Middletown Township. A few years later, he began working in the same capacity for Union Beach. Frank retired from Middletown on Dec 31, 2023, and stayed with Union Beach until the time of his passing. Frank served the West Keansburg Fire Company and Hazlet Fire Department with great honor for 61 years. He was an active Life Member and held many titles, from Chief of Department to Relief Association Treasurer. Frank was also instrumental in starting the Christmas tradition of Santa Claus visiting residents of West Keansburg on Christmas Eve. He was very dedicated and took great pride in serving his community. In his free time, Frank enjoyed gambling at casinos and spending time at the firehouse. He was a communicant of St. Ann's Catholic Church. He found joy in supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren at their sporting events. Visitation for Frank Kneipher Jr. will be held at the Laurel Funeral Home in Hazlet Township, NJ, on Thursday, January 18th, from 4-8 PM. The Laurel Funeral Home in Hazlet Township, NJ, is assisting the family with the arrangements. There will be a funeral service at St. Ann’s Church, Keansburg, on Friday, January 19th at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to your local Fire Department or First Aid Squad or St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. Frank's presence will be deeply missed by all those whose lives he touched. His selflessness, commitment, and love for his family will be remembered and cherished forever. May he rest in peace.

Frank W. Kneipher Jr.

July 30, 1937 - January 13, 2024