Obituaries - Thompson Memorial Home

Ronald H. Shiftan

Ronald Henri Shiftan, a distinguished financier, visionary leader, and beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away on Friday December 13th at the age of 80 surrounded by his family. Born on July 30, 1944, to Ernest and Carolla Shiftan at the French Hospital in Manhattan, Ron spent his formative years in Scarsdale, New York, alongside his younger brother, Tommy, who was born in 1946.

Ron graduated from Scarsdale High School in 1962 before pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in history from the University of Virginia, graduating in 1966. His academic journey continued at Columbia University School of Law, where he earned his Juris Doctor degree in 1969. His time at Columbia included a defining moment in May 1968, when student protests erupted, leading to the occupation of Hamilton Hall. Ron was appointed by the administration to chair the student disciplinary committee tasked with resolving the aftermath of the protests—a testament to his poise and leadership at a young age.

Garry M. Allers

Garry M. Allers, 82, of Fair Haven, NJ, passed away peacefully at his home on December 5, 2024. Born on July 9, 1942, he was a lifelong resident of Fair Haven, where he will be deeply missed by his many friends and neighbors.

Before dedicating his career to public service with the Borough of Fair Haven's Department of Public Works, Garry and his beloved wife, Jeanette, enjoyed a fulfilling career in the food service industry. They worked at several well-known Monmouth County restaurants, including Charlie Brown's, What's Your Beef, and Lock Stock and Barrel. Garry often shared fond memories of their time in service, including their travels to Las Vegas to work in casinos and their memorable trip to the famous Brown Derby in California to learn the secrets of their renowned blue cheese dressing. Both Garry and Jeanette were dedicated to their work and took great pride in their profession.

Patricia Ann Rainville

Patricia Ann Rainville of Red Bank, NJ, devoted mother and cherished Nana to her 11 grandchildren, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2024, leaving a legacy of love and kindness. Her Catholic faith was a guiding light, deeply influencing her values and actions. Patricia's love for her faith was only surpassed by her love for her family, and her greatest joy was becoming Nana. Known for her generous spirit, she always gave to others and uplifted those around her. Patricia's warm smile and compassionate heart will be missed by all who knew her.

Carol R. Wade

Carol R. Wade passed away peacefully on December 10, 2024 at Brandywine Assisted Living in Shrewsbury NJ where she has resided for almost five years. Carol lived in Little Silver for most of her entire married life.

She and her husband Art, purchased a new home in Crest Village in 1951 as one of the original homeowners of the neighborhood.

Carol was born in Orange NJ to Edwin and Elisabeth Reed. She graduated from Montclair High School in 1947 and attended six weeks of college before coming home and marrying her husband Arthur S. Wade, her neighborhood sweet heart.

Douglas Demarest Mercer

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

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

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

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.

Donald Brian Chamberlain

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 Walter Rowan

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

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.