WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J.—Arthur Van Riper, 87, and one of the former owners of Van Riper’s Farms, Woodcliff Lake, died on Sunday, Jan. 26, of natural causes—evoking memories of happier days at the once hugely-popular Chestnut Ridge Road farm believed to have been the oldest continuing operating farm in North Jersey.
Van Riper’s Farm was sold and replaced by a supermarket in 1994. The farm initially began operations in 1791, when the first crop was planted on its 160 acres.
When the farm closed down in the mid-1990s, it was the oldest in Woodcliff Lake. Arthur Van Riper Sr. was the 11th generation to farm the land. For many, the end of Van Riper’s was the end of an era.
Arthur, a lifelong resident, ran the farm with his brothers, Peter and Ralph, after returning from service in Korea.
According to relatives, one of his annual farm highlights—and most-loved by visitors—were the Halloween decorations and displays, which started in the 1960s.
Van Riper’s was decked out every Halloween with witches, scarecrows, and featured hayrides for the kids, and in later years an array of characters including vampires and blood-curdling evildoers to scare visitors. Arthur was the main force behind preparing the farm for its Halloween showcase.
On a memorial page online, family and friends posted heartfelt messages recalling many happy times and moments.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Bonnie, Art, Lyn and family at this very sad time. I have so many wonderful memories of Artie, the family and the farm. My very first job was with these wonderful people. I hold these memories close to my heart because they were such an amazing part of growing up in Woodcliff Lake. Rest In Peace Artie and fly high!” wrote Debbie Salvaggione.
Roni Wildoner, who posted a picture of Van Riper’s apple cider stand, said, “Many fond memories of Van Riper farm and the entire family. May Artie RIP and know his life’s work has created so many memories for so many people.”
Linda Schroeder wrote about what Arthur Sr. meant to her life. “Some people come into our lives, and when they leave, we know for sure we have been touched deep in our souls. We know that we are better people because they were a part of our lives. We forever feel their touch. That was Artie.”
Van Riper is survived by a brother Ralph; his wife of 57 years, Bonnie, a son, Arthur Jr., a daughter, Lyn; grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
“Strong as an ox and gentle as a butterfly’s wing. Known for always having a joke at the ready. An imaginative artist, McGiver-like tinkerer, private pilot, farmer, Irish philosopher, dog-person, ever-ready volunteer, great hugger and lifelong friend,” reads an obituary posted online.