Charles John Mund

Charles John Mund, a respected figure in the restaurant industry and a dedicated entrepreneur, passed away on January 4, 2025, in Kinnelon, New Jersey, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 2, 1928, in Hackensack, New Jersey.

After enlisting in the Army at the end of World War II, he served in Japan. Chuck then pursued an education that would shape his future in hospitality and business. He enrolled at the prestigious Cornell School of Hotel Administration, later enhancing his expertise at the Columbia Graduate Business School.

Chuck’s career began in the corporate foodservice sector, but at the age of 41, he took a bold step by becoming a Burger King franchisee. Working with various business partners, he successfully developed over 100 restaurants across seven states, Canada, and the Netherlands. His achievements did not go unnoticed; he served as President of the New Jersey Restaurant Association and was honored as Restaurateur of the Year. Furthermore, he founded the New Jersey Restaurant Educational Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to supporting the next generation in the hospitality field.

In addition to his endeavors within the restaurant industry, Chuck was deeply committed to giving back to his alma mater, Cornell. He established several scholarships, served as a Presidential Counselor, and was recognized with the Hospitality Innovator Award and the Frank HT Rhodes Exemplary Alumni Service Award.

Chuck was known for his warm personality and genuine interest in people. He had a unique talent for making connections, often engaging in friendly conversations with strangers. His fondness for meeting new individuals was evident even in simple situations, such as waiting rooms, where he would take the opportunity to get to know those around him.

He is survived by his wife, Carol, with whom he shared a remarkable marriage of 72 years. Together, they traveled to over 100 countries, creating countless memories. Charles is also survived by his sons, Charles Mund Jr. and Eric Mund.

He was preceded in death by his father, Karl Mund, his mother, Frieda Mund nee Islief, and sisters Mary Lou Imp and Elfriede Hershey.

Visitation will be held on January 9, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at The Morrison Etheridge Funeral Home, Inc., located at 86 Bartholdi Ave, Butler, NJ 07405.

Charles John Mund will be remembered as a pillar in the restaurant community and a loving family man whose legacy will continue through the lives he touched and the establishments he built.