Robert Von Thun Sr., third-generation farmer who helped transform Von Thun Farms, dies at 96
NEW JERSEY— Robert Von Thun Sr., a third-generation farmer who helped transform his family’s South Brunswick farming operation from growing potatoes and grain into a destination for fresh produce and family activities, has died at the age of 96, according to Von Thun Farms.
The farm, which operates locations at 505 Ridge Road in South Brunswick Township, Middlesex County and 438 Route 57 West in Washington Township, Warren County, announced his death in a Facebook post, remembering him for his dedication to agriculture, family and hard work.
Fondly known as “Pop Pop” to his five grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, Von Thun spent decades working alongside his children and grandchildren at the family’s South Brunswick farm.
His family’s agricultural roots date back to 1913, when Henry Von Thun purchased 90 acres of New Jersey farmland to establish a homestead and grow potatoes and grain crops. Henry’s son, Henry M. Von Thun, continued the farming tradition, which was later carried on by Robert Von Thun Sr.
As farming practices evolved, the family replaced workhorses with tractors while continuing to produce potatoes and various grains.
In 1986, Robert Von Thun Jr. formed a partnership with his father, allowing the two to operate the farm together until the elder Von Thun retired in 2004.
During their years working together, the family added a farm market and pick-your-own fields, shifting the operation toward growing small fruits and vegetables. The changes helped establish the foundation for the farm’s current focus on Jersey Fresh produce and agricultural activities for families.
The farm continued to expand over the years, adding greenhouses in 1989 and pick-your-own berry crops. In 1995, Robert Von Thun Jr. and Cindy began expanding the farm’s fall activities.
Today, Von Thun Farms grows fresh fruits and vegetables sold through farm markets, farmers markets and wholesale operations throughout New Jersey.
The operation also features apple orchards, pumpkin fields, a community-supported agriculture program, hayrides, an interactive corn maze and annual fall family weekends. School tours, seasonal festivals and other activities have become part of the farm’s offerings.
According to the farm’s website, five generations of the Von Thun family, alongside farm employees, have contributed to the operation over more than a century.
In announcing his death, the family credited Von Thun Sr. with helping transform the South Brunswick location from a traditional potato and grain farm into a destination for locally grown fruits and vegetables and family activities.
His legacy continues through the generations of the Von Thun family who have maintained and expanded the farming operation.
