Obituaries

After a summer filled with extended family and friends, Douglas Demarest Mercer, 88, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, September 18, 2024. He was the son of the late Henry D. and Catherine S. Mercer and was born in Passaic, New Jersey in 1935.

Doug graduated from the Merchant Marine Academy with honors and then joined the family shipping business, States Marine Lines between 1964-1980. States Marine had been founded in New York in 1930 by his father Henry D. Mercer. The company grew into a worldwide break-bulk shipping company, which at its peak had a fleet of 100 vessels, managed by 500 shoreside employees, plus a worldwide agency network. Initially, Doug learned the business by sailing as a Third Mate. He progressed up the ladder and assumed the presidency and then became CEO for the last ten years of his 25-year tenure. During this period, Doug also served on several boards, including Moore McCormack Resources, Maremont Corporation, and Paine Weber’s Family of Funds.

Paul A. Parmentola, 91, of Lincroft, New Jersey, passed away peacefully at home on December 7, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 16, 1933, in Baranello, Italy, Paul’s life was defined by hard work, devotion, and a deep love for his family.

Paul is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 64 years, Catherine; his son, Paul M. Parmentola, daughter-in-law Maria, and grandson Nicholas; his daughter, Michelle F. Pati, son-in-law Mario Pati, and granddaughters Giulianna and Valentina; his brother-in-law Achille Niro and his wife Suzanne; and many cherished cousins, nieces, and nephews around the world. He was predeceased by his parents, Michelangelo and Filomena Parmentola; his beloved granddaughter, Debra Parmentola; his in-laws Nicola and Camilla Niro; and his brother-in-law Umberto Niro.

Margaret Mary "Peg" Smith, 82, of Red Bank, passed away peacefully on November 30, 2024 surrounded by her loving family. She was born on February 2, 1942, to Margaret and Martin Maughan in Jersey City, New Jersey. 

Frank Joseph Martino, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep at Riverview Medical Center on December 1st, 2024 at 72 years old.

Born to Benjamin and Gloria Martines on October 3rd, 1952, Frank grew up in Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn surrounded by his large Italian family. After graduating from Sheepshead Bay High School in 1970, he pursued his dream of building his own Title Insurance company, a legacy that continues on to this day.

Our beloved Donald Brian Chamberlain passed away suddenly on December 2, 2024 at the age of 60. He leaves behind his loving wife (Mary) and children (Brian & Jack), sisters (Diann & Kelly), family, dear friends, as well as his clients whom he loved like family. 

Don was born on May 18th, 1964 and proudly lived in Little Silver, New Jersey for his whole life. With that, it felt like Don knew everyone in the area, and always had a smile and a minute to chat for anyone, be it a friend or a stranger. His days at work, or running endless errands, were full of the people he cared for, and his kindness will be a presence that is truly missed within the larger community. 

John Rowan, 81, of Fair Haven, passed away peacefully on December 2nd, surrounded by his loving family.

Born and raised in Atlantic Highlands, John graduated from Atlantic Highlands High School. He was the son of the late Walter and Margaret Rowan, John was also predeceased by his sister, Maureen Rowan. He is survived by his beloved wife of over 50 years, Susan and by his children, William (Nicole) Rowan of Fair Haven and Shannon (Andrew) Rockafellow of Downingtown, PA, and his cherished grandchildren, Abigail, Charlotte, Henry, Addison, and John. John also leaves behind his brother, Thomas (Margaret “Peg”) Rowan of Seattle, WA.

Gregory Lawrence Lotozo passed away peacefully on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024, at the age of 61. Born on September 8, 1963, Greg overcame extraordinary challenges with a resilience and joy that inspired everyone who knew him.

Greg is survived by his devoted parents, Ronald and Dale Lotozo; his brothers, Todd and David; his sister, Lori; his beloved nieces, Jayne, Jaclyn, and Jessica; and his cherished grand-nieces and nephews, his Aunts Nancy and Marilyn, cousins and many friends. He was the heart of his family, forming deep bonds and bringing a unique light to every gathering, especially his many visits home.

Keith Dennis Nowak passed away peacefully in the early hours on Monday, November 25th, at the age of 80, with his wife and two children by his side.

Born in Racine, Wisconsin, in 1944, Keith lived a life filled with purpose, passion, and achievement. He rose from humble beginnings on a small family farm to become a remarkable man of many talents and virtues. A voracious reader and lifelong learner, Keith was a dedicated Marine, a brilliant electrical engineer, a successful intellectual property trial attorney, a published writer, a skilled carpenter, an avid sailor, and a friend to all animals great and small—especially his horse, Serene Valor, and his dogs, Shadow, Rusty, Rosie, and Hank. Above all, he was a loving husband, a devoted father, and a doting grandfather.

John A. Manginelli passed away peacefully on Sunday surrounded by his family at Riverview Medical Center.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, John attended New York City Public Schools. From his humble beginnings as the child of immigrant parents, John quickly learned the value of hard work as a young boy when he frequently accompanied his father at work on his ice truck delivering ice to households and local businesses.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Ramiro Lara, a loving father, devoted grandfather, and cherished member of his community. Ramiro passed away on November 19th at the age of 69, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering support and profound love for his family and friends.

Born in Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico, Ramiro was deeply proud of his Mexican heritage, carrying its rich traditions and values into every aspect of his life. He was known for his strong work ethic and selfless spirit. He always went out of his way to help others without expecting anything in return. Ramiro had a remarkable gift for making friends wherever he went, earning the affectionate nickname of the “informal mayor of Red Bank” from his family, as he seemed to know everyone in town and always had a kind word for all. He truly excelled at finding and treasuring the good in people.