In a tragic event on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, Timothy Hannold, 50, a supervisor of recycling operations, died in an accident at the Northern Recycling Center in Lakewood, New Jersey.
Hannold, who had worked for the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management for 22 years, was fatally injured inside a large waste container, prompting an investigation by the New Jersey Department of Labor.
The accident occurred as employees at the recycling center attempted to move a large waste container delivered to the facility. Unbeknownst to them, Hannold had entered the dumpster. In the process of trying to upright the container, its doors shifted, tragically pinning Hannold against the inner wall.
Despite immediate efforts, Hannold did not survive the incident.
Hannold’s role at the recycling center was not just that of a supervisor; he was a veteran worker, highly regarded for his expertise and dedication to his job. Over two decades, he contributed significantly to the Ocean County Department of Solid Waste Management operations, earning his colleagues’ respect and admiration.
In addition to his professional life, Hannold was deeply involved in his community. Known affectionately as Timmy or Ripper, he was an active Parkertown Volunteer Fire Department member and participated in local hunting organizations. He belonged to the Pines Club, a hunting group where he engaged more in poker than actual hunting.
His interests included playing the drums and working on his truck, affectionately named “The Tugboat.” He also enjoyed quad biking with his daughter, camping, traveling, and spending time with his family.
Hannold’s death has left a void within the professional realm of waste management and recycling and in the hearts of those who knew him personally.
He is survived by his wife of 10 years, Jessica, and two children: a 21-year-old son, Kaden, and a 7-year-old daughter, Abigail.
In the aftermath of the accident, Colleena Lieter, whose brother-in-law was best friends with Hannold and who also knew Hannold’s children, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support his bereaved family with funeral costs and other expenses. The fundraiser has already generated over $6,600.
Lieter described Hannold as an outstanding father and a devoted husband. She noted that he maintained a close relationship with his family and was highly regarded by both colleagues and the employees he supervised.
Angela Delli Santi, a representative for the state’s Department of Labor which supervises the Public Employees Occupational Safety and Health department, verified that the investigation into the incident is underway but refrained from providing additional comments.