Richard VanNiekerk

Richard “Rick” VanNiekerk, 58, passed away unexpectedly on July 6, 2026, in Butler, New Jersey, where he was born and raised.

If you knew Rick, you probably laughed with him. More than once. He had a sarcastic sense of humor and a talent for making people smile. He was a proud smart ass in the best possible way, always ready with a joke, a clever comment, or a perfectly timed one-liner.

Beneath the humor, Rick was genuinely kind-hearted and thoughtful. He was loyal to the people he loved, friendly to everyone he met, and someone who could make any room lighter.

Rick was always creating, building, and finding new challenges to take on. One of his greatest passions was working on old hot rods, a hobby he shared with his father over the years, forming memories Rick would cherish forever. He found joy in bringing classic cars back to life, solving every challenge they threw at him, and taking pride in every detail.

Rick brought that same passion for making things his own into everything he did. He was the proud owner of Pompton Lakes Bagel, a place that reflected his personality just as much as his work ethic. He loved bringing unique ideas to life, and his creativity could be seen in every corner – literally. Rick never saw a reason to do things the ordinary way when they could be more fun.

But the greatest thing Rick ever built wasn't something you could see; it was the memories he created with the people he loved. Rick’s children, Justin and Nicole, will always remember their dad as someone who brought love, laughter, support, and a sense of comfort into their lives. Whether he was playing board games with them as children, going out for brunch and antique shopping with Nicole, or talking music with Justin and sharing in his excitement for his band, he created a bond with his children that they will carry with them forever. He loved them beyond words, celebrated everything they accomplished, and couldn't have been prouder to be their dad.

Rick’s commitment to family extended beyond his role as a father. He shared many years of his life with Danielle, the mother of his children, former wife, and longtime friend. Together, they built a family, created a business, and shared countless meaningful moments along the way. Through every chapter of life, Rick always cared for Danielle, and never stopped being there for her. It was a reflection of who Rick was – someone who cared deeply and always showed up for the people who meant the most to him.

As a son, Rick was devoted and dependable. He held a special place in his heart for his parents and cherished the time they spent together. As a brother, Rick showed up with the same loyalty and dependability for his sisters, Joanie and Paula. He valued the connection they shared and was always there when they needed him.

Rick was preceded in death by his parents, Joan and Richard VanNiekerk Sr. He is survived by his children, Justin and Nicole VanNiekerk; his sisters, Joanie Kirchner (Mike Kirchner) and Paula Horton (Michael Horton); his former wife, Danielle VanNiekerk; six nieces and nephews; and many friends and family members.

Rick’s humor, his heart, and the happiness he brought into people’s lives will live on in every story that's told, every laugh that's shared, and every memory that still brings a smile.

We'll miss you so much, Dad. We’ll take it to the limit one more time for you.

A gathering to celebrate Rick’s life will be held at The Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, Inc., located at 86 Bartholdi Ave, Butler, NJ 07405, on Saturday, July 11, 2026, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites those who wish to honor Rick’s memory to make a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Sign the physical guest book, please click this link below. This information will not be displayed online and will only be printed in the actual guest book. https://guestregistry.funeralscreen.com/guest-entry/15533