Thomas J Schnackenberg

Thomas J. Schnackenberg, 82, of Toms River, New Jersey, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at Concord Long Term Nursing and Rehabilitation in Lakewood, New Jersey.

Born on April 26, 1943, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Arthur Schnackenberg and Marie Capelli Schnackenberg, Thomas moved with his family to Fort Lee at the age of five. There he was raised and lived for many years before relocating to Toms River in 2007.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 1st Air Cavalry in 1966 and 1967, spending much of 1967 in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. During his service he came under enemy fire and was awarded the Bronze Star with Valor for his bravery. After returning home, Thomas built a successful career as a stockbroker on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, retiring from Merrill Lynch after many years of dedicated service. He was also a longtime member of the Fort Lee Fire Department Hook and Ladder Company #3 and served as Chief of the Fort Lee Fire Department, devoting many years to protecting his community.

Above all, Thomas was a devoted family man. He is survived by his beloved wife, Suzanne (nee Wilson), with whom he shared 61 years of marriage; his son, Mark Schnackenberg and his wife Melissa of Cedar Falls, Iowa; and his cherished grandchildren, Madison and Michael, who lovingly called him Papa. He is also survived by his sister Marie Schnackenberg Dunbar of Valencia, California. He was predeceased by his brother Arthur Schnackenberg.