Frederick W. Menzel Jr, a devoted husband, cherished father and grandfather, beloved brother, and treasured friend to so many, passed away peacefully on August 3, 2026, in Livingston, NJ, surrounded by his family. Fred was born on March 24, 1943, in Glen Ridge, New Jersey, the son of Frederick Menzel Sr. and Jane Menzel, who preceded him in death.

Fred’s life was a shining testament to dedication, service, and love. He grew up with a steadfast commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around him. His journey began early, and in 1962 he embarked on a professional path that would shape not only his future but also the lives of countless others when he started work as a scientist for Schering until he retired in 2006. It was here, in May of 1964, that Fred’s life took a wonderful turn when he met Stella, the woman who would become his loving wife. Their partnership was one of unwavering support and affection, strengthened by shared values and decades of devotion for 60 years.

He leaves behind a family who was the center of his world, his beloved son Michael, and his wife Kelly along with their three daughters Jillian, fiancé Phil, Taylor, and Chloe and his loving daughter Jennifer, her husband Scott, and their daughter Kiley. His love, guidance and unwavering support will live on in each of them. The love for his grandchildren was unmeasurable. Fred’s sister, Barbara Anderson, and her husband Robert, also survive him, sharing treasured memories and an unbreakable bond.

Fred carried his commitment to public service into every realm of life, including his country. Beginning in 1964, he responded to the call of duty and enlisted in the National Guard, completing basic training in South Carolina before serving in New Jersey for six years.

For over half a century, Fred was a cornerstone of the Township, specifically the Bloomfield Emergency Squad, giving an incredible 56 years of dedicated service. For most of those years, he managed EMS as Captain, was Director of Daytime Services, and was a member of the Board of Trustees. He was the pulse of the organization. Fred's leadership and courage were ever-present, whether he was guiding the Emergency Squad through calm days or steering them through the most critical crises. His deep sense of duty extended throughout the township, most notably as Director of the Bloomfield Office of Emergency Management. In this role, he oversaw the town’s preparation and response to urgent threats including guiding Bloomfield safely through the challenges of events like Hurricane Sandy before his retirement from that post in 2008. Fred’s dedication never wavered; even in his final days, he could be found lending his guidance as Director of Bloomfield EMS operations, offering his invaluable expertise.

Fred’s service did not go unrecognized. He was honored with awards too numerous to mention individually, yet among them, a few stand out as tokens of the community's deep appreciation. He was the proud recipient of the “Act of Heroism” award, the “Citizen of the Year” award, and the “Dedication of Service Award.” The Rotary Club of Bloomfield, of which he was a proud and active member, made him President and added to his accolades with the prestigious Paul Harris Fellowship. Fred was instrumental in shaping the town’s civic life, even being called upon to serve on committees during presidential visits by Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush.

Throughout his life, Fred touched the lives of those he encountered, not just as a public servant and leader, but as a true friend many of whom he considered family. His integrity, gentle kindness, and deep well of patience were spent generously, making each person who met him feel valued and heard.

A visitation will be held for Frederick on August 6, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at the Caggiano Memorial-Home, 62 Grove St, Montclair, NJ. A Funeral Mass will follow on August 7, 2026, at 9:30 AM at St Thomas the Apostle, 60 Byrd Ave, Bloomfield, NJ.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to the St. Thomas the Apostle Church fund for air conditioning. Click to Donate

As we bid farewell to Frederick W. Menzel Jr, we remember him not only for his long list of accomplishments, but for the way he made us feel safer, stronger, and loved. His legacy of steadfast service and deep compassion will live on through his family, the community of Bloomfield, and all whose lives he touched. He leaves behind a void and a legacy that can never be filled, but also a shining example of a life well and selflessly lived.