Richard J. Knapp Jr., affectionately known as Richie, passed away Jan. 11, 2026, at the age of 69. Born April 29, 1956, in South Plainfield, Richie was a beloved son, brother and uncle. His early years in South Plainfield were filled with cherished memories. At the age of 12, he moved with his family to Leonardo; he would spend the remainder of his life as a proud resident of Middletown Township.
Richie was predeceased by his loving parents, Richard Sr. and June Knapp. His memory will be forever held in the hearts of his siblings, David, Thomas and Dennis, Deborah Cardoza, Diane Caulfield, Karen Knapp and Kimberly Malmgren, as well as their families, who will miss his kind and friendly spirit.
Richie dedicated many years of service to the Hazlet Board of Education, where his handiness and amiable nature made him a well-respected and valued member of the team. His colleagues knew him as a man who could always be relied upon, both for his skill and his willingness to lend a helping hand.
Richie proudly served in the United States Marine Corps during the 1970s. Although it was peacetime, he travelled the world and was stationed in Okinawa, Japan, for a while.
A man of diverse interests and talents, Richie had a passion for classic cars. He spent countless hours restoring them to their former glory and took great joy in attending swap meets to connect with fellow enthusiasts. His love for mechanics extended to motorcycles as well, and he could often be found riding or tinkering with his bike, a testament to his hands-on approach to his hobbies.
Richie’s younger years were also marked by a love of the water, as he enjoyed fishing from his boat, embracing the sport’s tranquility and challenges. His taste in music was rooted in the classics, and he was a regular at concerts, reveling in the sounds of classic rock that defined an era.
An avid football fan, Richie’s loyalty to the Washington Redskins (now Commanders) was unwavering. Game days were sacred, and he shared his passion for the sport with friends and family, creating memories with every play.
Richie’s legacy is one of kindness, friendliness and practical skill. He was the kind of person who made a lasting impression on those he met, and his absence will be deeply felt by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Friends and family paid their respects Jan. 14 and 15 at Scott & Kedz Home for Funerals, Belford. A funeral service was held Jan. 15 at the funeral home. Burial and committal followed at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Middletown.
The article originally appeared in the January 29 – February 4, 2026 print edition of The Two River Times.
