Longtime South Brunswick Farmer Who Helped Transform Family Farm Dies At 96

SOUTH BRUNSWICK, NJ — Robert Von Thun Sr., a third-generation farmer who helped turn his family's South Brunswick farm into a destination for Jersey Fresh produce and family outings, has died. He was 96.

Von Thun Farms announced his death on its Facebook page.

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"It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Robert Von Thun Sr., 3rd generation farmer, at the age of 96," the post said. "He leaves behind a legacy rooted in family, farming, and hard work."

Known as "Pop Pop" to his five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, Von Thun spent many years working the farm alongside his children and grandchildren, according to the post.

The farm's roots go back more than a century. Von Thun's grandfather, Henry Von Thun, bought 90 acres of farmland in 1913 and grew potatoes and grain, according to the farm's website. The land passed to Henry M. Von Thun and then to Robert, known as Bob, who farmed mainly potatoes and grain.

In 1986, Bob Von Thun Sr. went into partnership with his son, Bob Von Thun Jr. They farmed together until the elder Von Thun retired in 2004.

During those years, the farm changed a lot. Tractors replaced work horses, and small fruits and vegetables took the place of potatoes and grain. The family added greenhouses in 1989, along with pick-your-own berry crops, a farm market and pick-your-own fields, according to the website.

Today, the farm on Ridge Road in the Monmouth Junction section of South Brunswick grows apples, pumpkins, berries and vegetables. It sells produce at its farm markets and at farmers markets across the state. It also hosts hayrides, a corn maze, fall festivals, school tours and family fun days.

Five generations of the Von Thun family have worked the farm, according to its website. It's one of the few family-run farms left in central New Jersey.

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