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.

He was born on April 26, 1943, in Jersey City, New Jersey, to Arthur Schnackenberg and Marie Capelli Schnackenberg. At the age of five, his family moved to Fort Lee, New Jersey, where he was raised and remained a longtime resident until relocating to Toms River in 2007.

Thomas proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 1st Air Cavalry 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.

Following his military service, Thomas built a successful career as a stock broker on the floor of the New York Stock Exchange, retiring from Merrill Lynch after many years of dedicated service.

He was also a member of the Fort Lee Fire Department Hook and Ladder Company #3 and was a former Chief of the Fort Lee Fire Department, dedicating many years to protecting and serving his community.

Thomas was first and foremost 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. 

Family will receive friends on Thursday, March 19th from 4 to 8 PM at the Frank A.Patti Funeral Home, 327 Main Street, Fort Lee, NJ. A funeral mass will be held at Madonna Church 340 Main Street, Fort Lee on Friday, March 20th at 11 AM In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to: Wounded Warrior Project or Tunnel To Towers Foundation.