PHOTOS: Former Fire Chief Honored At Bergenfield Little League Opening Day

BERGENFIELD, N.J. — Longtime Little League coach Ned Kneisler, a Bergenfield native who served as the borough's fire chief and DPW superintendent, was honored at Opening Day ceremonies Saturday morning.

Ned Kniesler Photo Credit: *Alex Kneisler*

Bergenfield Mayor Norman Schmelz with Cindy, Alex and Eric Kniesler. Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

Bergenfield Little League coaches on opening day. Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

Kathie Lacey hugs Cindy Kniesler. Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

The Kneisler family is presented with a plaque renaming the snack stand "Coach Ned Kneisler Snack Stand." Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

Juan Valdez throws out the first pitch. Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

Juan Valdez was named Sportsman of the Year. Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

Matt Speiser

04/24/2016 6:30 p.m.

Kneisler died suddenly last Sept. 4 after working for the borough for 36 years. He was 59.

"Ned was such a giant part of our community," Bergenfield Mayor Norman Schmelz told Daily Voice. "He loved little league and he loved the town and it is very sad that he could not be here today."

As part of the ceremony, the snack stand at the Bergenfield Little League complex was renamed for Kneisler. His widow, Cindy, and sons Alex and Eric were also presented with a plaque.

"He would [have] loved this," Cindy told Daily Voice. "We are so appreciative of everything the Little League has done for our family."

During the opening day festivities, Little League volunteer Juan Valdez was also presented with the "Sportsman Of The Year" award.

Check out the photos of the opening day ceremony above.

Click here to follow Daily Voice Bergenfield and receive free news updates.