Monmouth County Parks Icon Truncer Dies; Praised By Leaders

FREEHOLD, NJ – The Monmouth County Board of Commissioners on Monday announced the death of James J. "Jim" Truncer, 86, who was the Park System director since 1965, and praised him for the "incredible impact" he had on the development of the county parks.

"While we mourn the loss of a great man, we celebrate Jim's life and thank him for the incredible impact he has had on the Monmouth County Park System, the county as a whole and every single individual who was fortunate enough to work with him," the statement said.

Truncer, a resident of Allentown, began his tenure with Monmouth County as a volunteer on the Board of Recreation Commissioners before becoming a park planner with the Planning Board in 1964, the county statement said.

He then became became the Park System Director in 1965, a position he had been serving in for 58 years, until his death, the county said.

The Park System expanded from 350 acres on three parks to more than 18,000 acres of parkland, which includes 37 parks, six golf courses and 148 miles of trails.

This was accomplished "under Jim's thoughtful guidance," the commissioners said.

"Jim was a true visionary and respected leader. We will always remember Jim's tireless dedication to the Park System and the people of Monmouth County as his legacy," the commissioners said.

According to Truncer's obituary, Peppler Funeral Homes of Allentown is handling arrangements.

Truncer and his wife Ramona, who died in 2021, according to the funeral home, raised their family in Holmdel, later moving back to Allentown 23 years ago.