ABOUT US
PETER A. BLACKSBERG - President
Peter A. Blacksberg, the fourth generation president of Riverside Cemetery, is responsible for the long term vision and strategy of the Cemetery as it begins its second century of service.
An active member of the Northern New Jersey Jewish community, Mr. Blacksberg is committed to ensuring that Riverside continues to be The Jewish Cemetery of Distinction for Caring Families, providing a dignified and respectful environment, and maintaining a deep respect for the commitments and traditions of the past.
For the past 17 years, first as vice president and now as president, Mr. Blacksberg has instituted major initiatives to enhance the overall infrastructure and condition of the Cemetery. Programs include the design and development of a fully-integrated Cemetery database system, the total renovation of the Cemetery office building, and design and construction of a new crew facility building. Special focus has been placed on a newly-published unique Graveside Prayer book and Cemetery Guide. As the Cemetery celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2006, Mr. Blacksberg has initiated a marketing program of reintroducing Riverside Cemetery to the Metropolitan New Jersey and New York Jewish Community, with an emphasis on new grave sales and Perpetual Care.
Prior to joining Riverside Cemetery, his previous career included software development, multi-media communications (professional photography, radio and television production) and interpreting for the deaf. Mr. Blacksberg is a member of the Board of Directors of the New Jersey Cemetery Association, The Association of Independent Cemeteries, and a member of the Board of Trustees of Temple Beth Tikvah in Wayne, New Jersey.
Mr. Blacksberg holds an MBA from Columbia University, and a BFA from the Rochester Institute of Technology. He resides in New Jersey with his wife and son.
KENNETH STUDER - Vice President
Mr. Studer manages all aspects of the day-to-day operations of Riverside Cemetery, from office staff to field personnel. He has been instrumental in applying computer technology to the management of the field, including the use of digital mapping and photography in daily functions. With over 33 years of experience here at Riverside, Mr. Studer has had personal experience with each facet of the cemetery's operations, and is able to bring that experience to bear on the challenges of running the facility. Mr. Studer holds an accounting degree from William Paterson University and has three adult children. His son Matthew is currently serving with the 4th Infantry Division in Iraq.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Our six customer service professionals are available during all office hours to answer plot holder inquires. They are especially knowledgeable about the complex details of the Riverside Cemetery records, which date back in some cases four generations. Care is taken to ensure the most complete and accurate responses to questions, and to give each person who touches Riverside the patient and personalized service they deserve.
THE FIELD STAFF
Our field staff ranges in number from 30 to 60 individuals, depending on the seasonal landscaping requirements. Each member of the crew is professionally trained to use their equipment effectively, safely and efficiently. Of special importance is our 'burial crew' which performs burials with dignity and calm, helping to make the experience of coming here as comfortable as possible.
SECURITY
A Security Guard is on premises whenever the gates are open, and can assist in finding a gravesite when the offices are closed.
DATABASE
With respect to questions about using our database of interred individuals, click here.
DEEDS AND TRANSFER OF TITLES
For questions regarding Deeds and Transfer of Titles, please call Extension 23 or click here.
RESTROOMS
Public handicapped accessible restrooms are located at the rear of our office building and are open at all times gates are open.
LOCAL DINING
There are dozens of eating establishments within a mile of Riverside Cemetery. The closest is the Saddle Brook Diner located just outside our Main gate on Market Street. Market Street, Essex Street, Saddle River Road and Midland Avenue all have a variety of places. The Garden State Plaza – 15 minutes away – features many fine restaurants.
VENDORS
If you are a vendor looking for information regarding doing business with us, please click here.
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