Bernard Maran

Bernard, “Ben” as his friends called him, was born on July 25, 1934, to Michael and Elizabeth Maran. Born in Summit, NJ, Ben lived in many places throughout his life, including Irvington, Maplewood, Bricktown, West Palm Beach and finally, his home in Stuart, Florida.

Ben was a kind man that helped anyone in need. This was most evident in his choice of career path. Ben served as a public servant with the Township of Maplewood in different capacities for over 30 years. First, he worked with the Department of Public Works and then he served with the Maplewood Fire Department from 1959-1989, where he retired as an acting Lieutenant of Station 2. During his career as a professional firefighter, Ben’s actions on the job made a positive impact upon his community and his peers. This was conveyed in both the large things: being brave and saving people’s lives, and in the small things like talking to children about fire safety.

Even after retirement, Ben took on jobs in the interest of public safety, like being a crossing guard for the local school district. Ben was also a long-time active member of the Army National Guard, Fraternal Order of ELKS, the Firemen’s Mutual Benevolent Association (FMBA) and the Knights of Columbus. Through these organizations, he donated his time to give back to the communities where he lived and loved.

Ben is predeceased by his greatest love, wife Joan (Melluso), and his siblings, Frank and Agnes.

Ben is survived by his children, Steven (Brenda) Maran, Victoria (Robert) Reiss, Scott (Cheri) Maran, and Spencer (Nancy) Maran; grandchildren: Robert, Brian, Jessica, Scott and Olivia; nieces and nephews: Carol, Johnny, Bruce, Tina and Lynn, and the Melluso family. Ben is also survived by his former spouse and mother of his children, Irene Maran.

Most of all, Ben is survived by his memory and how he touched others’ lives. Please continue his memory and honor by helping someone in your community.