Former Monmouth County Republican Chairman, Frederick C. Kniesler, Passes Away at 93
Frederick C. Kniesler, a prominent figure in New Jersey politics and former Monmouth County Republican Chairman, has sadly passed away at the age of 93. His career spanned decades, and he held positions at the New Jersey Department of Labor under governors from both parties.
A Notable Political Career
Kniesler’s political journey began during President Dwight Eisenhower’s mid-term election when he first ran for office. Remarkably, he may be one of the last surviving New Jerseyans to have run on the same ticket as Republican gubernatorial candidate Malcolm Forbes.
After the untimely death of Leon Nelson in 1954, Kniesler was elected as the Upper Freehold Township Clerk at the young age of 24, running unopposed. His dedication and commitment to public service were evident as he subsequently ran for a seat on the Upper Freehold Township Committee in 1957. Although facing no Democratic opposition, he defeated independent candidate Milton Klink by an impressive 2-1 margin. Kniesler then served as mayor from 1961 to 1965.
Throughout his career, Kniesler held various positions, including working in the Monmouth County Clerk’s office and serving as the Monmouth County Purchasing Agent, the clerk of the Monmouth County Board of Freeholders, and the Upper Freehold Township Treasurer. His extensive knowledge and expertise in accounting were further honed through night classes at Rider University, where he earned a degree in accounting.
A Delegate and a County Chairman
Kniesler’s political influence extended beyond local government. As a delegate to the 1976 Republican National Convention, he pledged his support to President Gerald Ford. Eight years later, in 1984, he had the honor of being a member of the Electoral College in New Jersey, pledging his allegiance to Ronald Reagan.
Kniesler’s leadership qualities shone brightly when, in 1981, he was tasked with replacing the retiring Benjamin Danskin as the Monmouth County Republican Chairman. During his tenure, he successfully navigated the political landscape and oversaw crucial decisions, such as selecting a new assembly candidate in the 11th legislative district.
A Life Committed to Public Service
In 1986, Governor Thomas Kean appointed Kniesler as Assistant Commissioner of Labor for Income Security, highlighting his expertise in labor-related matters. Kniesler’s dedication to public service continued even after his retirement from politics. Following Democrat Jim Florio’s gubernatorial win in 1990, Kniesler became the Manalapan Township administrator. He later returned to the Labor Department as deputy commissioner after Republican Christine Todd Whitman’s victory in the 1993 election, holding the position until his retirement in 1997.
Outside of his professional life, Kniesler served on the Monmouth County Recreation Commission during his retirement years. His commitment to his community and his passion for public service were unwavering.
A Fond Farewell
Frederick C. Kniesler leaves behind a lasting legacy and will be dearly missed. As a U.S. Army veteran and with twelve years in the Army Reserves, his dedication to his country and his community was unwavering.
He is survived by his loving wife, Bunny, as well as his son and daughter, along with his cherished grandchildren. Sadly, two of his sons, Rick and Chris, predeceased him.
Frederick C. Kniesler’s contributions to New Jersey politics and his commitment to public service will always be remembered and celebrated.
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