PARK RIDGE—The Park Ridge Police Department is proud to celebrate Robert “Bob” Oppelt’s legacy of volunteerism and dedication.
Bob, born in 1946 in Bergenfield, has spent his life committed to the ideals of volunteerism, community service, and patriotism. From his early years, Bob recognized the importance of giving back, starting his volunteer journey as a member of the Bergenfield Rescue Squad. But his service didn’t stop there.
In 1965, at the height of the Vietnam War, Bob answered a higher call by enlisting in the Navy Reserves. He transitioned to active duty in 1967, serving until 1971. As a gunner’s mate 3rd class (E-4), Bob maintained the formidable main guns aboard the U.S.S. William R. Rush (DD-714), a destroyer on which he served from 1967 to 1968 during the Vietnam War.
His time in the Navy laid the groundwork for a life of dedicated service, not just to his country but to every community he would call home. After his military service, Bob settled in Tenafly, where he joined the Tenafly Fire Department, continuing his pattern of volunteerism. By 1977, he moved to Park Ridge, where his contributions only deepened. Bob wore many hats in Park Ridge—coach, commissioner, committee member, and, eventually, councilman. His involvement with local sports as a coach and manager of baseball, softball, and basketball teams, and his role as indoor soccer commissioner, made him a familiar face to generations of young athletes and their families.
But Bob’s service to Park Ridge extends far beyond sports. He was instrumental in the startup committee for the Office of Emergency Management and served on the borough’s Juvenile Conference Committee.
His deep commitment to civic life was evident during his 15 years on the Planning Board. His leadership abilities were further recognized when, in 2011, he was elected to the Park Ridge Borough Council.
As a councilman from 2012 to 2018, Bob took on multiple roles, including Fire Commissioner and liaison to PKRG-TV, the town’s public access station. His influence was felt in both departments, where his efforts led to improved services. Perhaps most importantly, Bob made it his mission to ensure local veterans were recognized and actively involved in community events like the Memorial Day Parade, Veterans Day ceremony, and 9/11 Memorial. In 2012, he played a pivotal role in honoring Park Ridge’s own Corporal Jedh C. Barker, a U.S. Marine and Medal of Honor recipient, with a memorial plaque.
Since 2019, Bob has served as Commander of the Corporal Jedh C. Barker American Legion Post 153. His dedication to veterans remains a cornerstone of his leadership, having previously served as 3rd Vice Commander.
Over a career spanning more than five decades, Bob worked in international cargo logistics and shipping, traveling to more than 23 countries. In retirement, he remains as active as ever, finding joy in bowling, his favorite sport. A skilled bowler, Bob has come close to perfection with a 299 score in league play at Montvale Lanes.
This year has been one of milestones for Bob and his wife, Randi, as they celebrated 55 years of marriage on Aug. 9. Together, they’ve raised three children—daughters Victoria and Jessica, and son Jason—and are the proud grandparents of five.
Whether through his military service, his tireless volunteer work, or his unwavering support for the communities of Bergen County, Bob has made an indelible mark. His life is a testament to the power of giving back. Thank you, Bob, for everything you’ve done.
The Park Ridge Police Department Veteran of the Quarter feature is a proud partnership of Pascack Press.