The Cape May County Board of County Commissioner announced that the Zoo received a significant donation from a longtime friend and supporter. Charles Muller, from Edison, New Jersey, bequeathed his entire estate to the County Zoo/Zoological Society. Muller and his wife, Elizabeth, first visited the Zoo in the early 2000s and developed a deep affection for it.  

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(Cotton-top Tamarins)

One of their favorite animals was Rocky, the Siberian tiger, who sadly passed away in June 2017. Over the years, the couple made donations to the Zoo. After Elizabeth’s passing in 2010, Muller continued to visit and formed a friendship with Michael Laffey, the former Director of Parks. Muller enjoyed behind-the-scenes tours with Laffey and expressed an interest in contributing to the Zoo. 

Charles Muller, born in New York on May 20, 1929, passed away on September 29, 2022, at the age of 93. In his Will, he made a provision for the care of the animals at the Cape May County Zoo. Laffey, named the Executor of Muller’s Will, followed his wishes and the assets will be used to benefit the Zoo by providing food, shelter including habitats and exhibits, and medical care for the animals. 

For nearly two years, Laffey worked with Muller’s attorney to liquidate the assets, resulting in a historic donation to the Zoo. The County Commissioners and the Zoological Society received a check for $1,435,787.59—the largest single contribution ever made to the Cape May County Zoo. 

Leonard C. Desiderio, Cape May County Commissioner Director, expressed heartfelt gratitude for this generous gift. “We are extremely fortunate to have friends of the Zoo from around the country and from all walks of life who love our Zoo as much as we do. This unexpected donation will serve to provide food, shelter and habitats for the animals along with medical care.  On behalf of the Board of Commissioners, I extend our sincere gratitude to Charles Muller who will be memorialized for this generous donation. 

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(Andean bear, a recent addition to the zoo!)

Commissioner Andrew Bulakowski, who serves as the liaison to the Parks and Zoo, added, “It’s gifts like these that help keep the Cape May County Zoo the jewel that it is.” 

Neil Byrne, President of the Zoological Society, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the positive impact this donation will have on the Zoo’s future.   

Donations for the care of the animals are greatly appreciated and those interested in making a donation to the Cape May County Zoo can contact Edward Runyon at Edward.runyon@co.cape-may.nj.us

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