With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Stanley John Maziarz of Trenton, NJ.
These pages are a small offering toward a much larger life.
What remains is what was loved.
Stanley J. Maziarz, 91, passed away on Wednesday April 29th, in Delray Beach Florida with family by his side.
Born in Trenton to humble beginnings, Stan's life was shaped early by responsibility and determination. At just 12 years old, after the loss of his father, he stepped into the role of helping support his family as his mother carried on the Olden Avenue Fruit Stand. From that moment on, Stan embodied a quiet strength and sense of purpose that would guide him throughout his life.
While attending St. Hedwig's, Stan discovered a passion that would stay with him forever – music. The accordion became not only an instrument, but a lifelong companion. A 1951 graduate of Trenton Catholic High School, Stan went on to attend the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business at the remarkable age of 16, graduating cum laude in 1955. During those years, he played his accordion in local bars – long before he was old enough to order a drink – helping pay his way through school.
As the leader of Stan Maze and His Ambassadors, he brought the sounds of the Big Band era to life in local venues and ballrooms. His talent and passion drew the attention of notable musicians of the time, including Sammy Kaye and Gene Krupa, who sat in and joined a set when in town. Stan enjoyed every moment he had with his band, and the friendships music established over 50+ years.
Stan's professional career was marked by diligence and unwavering integrity. He began at DeLaval before moving into public service of Chief Fiscal Officer for the New Jersey Housing Finance Agency and later as Chief Internal Auditor for the Division of Building and Construction. It was in these roles that Stan demonstrated extraordinary courage. Upon uncovering corruption within the department, he refused to remain silent. Though his actions ultimately led to his wrongful termination – what would now be recognized as whistleblowing – Stan never wavered. Efforts to break his spirit failed. Instead, his resilience and honesty led to years of investigation, and public recognition. He was honored by the New Jersey Senate and General assembly and named the Knights of Columbus Man of the Year. He went on to complete his career with Hill International, a worldwide construction and consulting firm, contributing to high-profile projects both locally and around the world.
Beyond his professional life, Stan shared a deep love of travel with his beloved wife Veronica. Together they created One Stop Travel Shop and explored the world; Far beyond what a young boy from North Trenton and a girl from Roebling once imagined possible. From the Pyramids of Egypt to the Great Wall of China, Russia's Red Square to the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Stan embraced each journey with wonder and gratitude. That spirit of adventure lives on in his children and grandchildren. Stan would often reminisce about their trip to "It-lee" and loved family vacations together. Stan was also a Charter Officer of the Hamilton Elks #2062, served as Secretary of Local 62 of the American Federation of Musicians, and was a devoted lector and parishioner of St. Raphael's Church.
He will be remembered for his quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and stunning blue eyes. To those who knew him, he always had a joke at the ready and a story to share. He would often say "I go to one pool in the morning to exercise my body and another pool in the afternoon to exercise my mouth."
Stan never forgot those who helped him along the way; He often spoke of Al Solomon, a mentor and father figure in his youth who encouraged him, and so many others, to aim higher and pursue education. Stan carried that lesson forward, taking pride in the many lives he influenced.
Husband of the late Veronica C. Maziarz, son of the late Stanley and Rose Maziarz Zabawa, stepson of the late John Zabawa, son-in-law of the late Andrew and Anna Simkovich, brother-in-law of the late Judy Maziarz; he is survived by his loving sons and their spouses, Stan and Delia, David and Lynn, John and Ellen, Chris and Norma; his grandchildren and their spouses or significant others, Stosh and Christina, Jared, Allison and Craig Danner, Andrew, Ashley, Jeffrey and Michelle, Tiffany and Trevor Brown, Mary Anne and Nik; great grandchildren Nora and Laney Danner; brother Richard and sister Joann Gaglione; his companion Barbara Thiel, and nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and colleagues.
Stanley J. Maziarz lived a life of meaning, conviction, and generosity. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is now reunited with Veronica, the love of his life. May he rest in peace.
Memorial calling hours will be Tuesday, June 9th, 2026 from 10:00am – 12:00pm at Knott's Colonial Funeral Home, 2946 South Broad Street Hamilton.
Cremation was private.
Memorial contributions in memory of Stanley J. Maziarz may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis TN 38105.
stjude.org
