Remembering 58-Year County Park System Director Jim Truncer

Longtime Monmouth County Park System Director Jim Truncer passed away on Sunday, Feb. 19, at his Allentown home, surrounded by family. He was 86.

Truncer was a U.S. Airforce veteran who served during Vietnam era. He earned both his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Michigan State University, where he studied Natural Resources Management, his obituary said.

He worked for the Park System for more than 58 years and lived in Holmdel as well as Allentown.

Truncer was known for his dedication to his work and outgoing, spirited demeanor.

The following is a statement from the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners about Truncer:

“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of James ‘Jim’ J. Truncer. Jim 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 and then became became the Park System Director in 1965, a position he had been serving in for for 58 years, until his passing.

“Under Jim’s thoughtful guidance, the Park System expanded from 350 acres on three parks to more than 18,000 acres of park land, which includes 37 parks, six golf courses and 148 miles of trails.

“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.

“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 that was fortunate enough to work with him.”