John J. Knyff, World War Vet, Past President Of Ocean Gate First Aid Squad, Dies At 93

John J. Knyff of Ocean Gate, died peacefully on July 9, 2017. He was 93.

Born and raised in East Rutherford, he lived in Rutherford before moving to Ocean Gate 35 years ago. Mr. Knyff retired as lieutenant from the Rutherford Police Department with 33 years of dedicated service. John received many citations for his heroism in police work. He was also inducted into the Police Hall of Fame in Florida.

He proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II, serving the supply lines to General MacArthur's troops. John also served his Ocean Gate community, since 1981, as a fireman andpPast President of the Ocean Gate Volunteer Fire Department. His wife Eleanor of 64 years, predeceased him in 2012.

Surviving are three children; John and his wife Sandra, Patty Chillemi and her husband Philip and Ruth Rich and her husband Buddy, five grandchildren; John A., Jenae, Sarah, Andrea and Edward; one great granddaughter Ella; also, three siblings, Catherine Meigh, MaryAnn Knyff and Henry Knyff.

Visiting hours will be from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m, on Thursday, July 13, with a prayer service at 8:30pm, at the Mastapeter Funeral Home, 270 Atlantic City Blvd., Bayville. The burial will be private with the family.

Image: Patch file photo