Manuel J. Maroukis

Mike started playing the drums at the age of 12 and music was a passion his entire life. He volunteered to join the Navy at the age of 18 in 1944 and served in World War II, spending 2 years on a Destroyer Escort (in Mediterranean Sea and the Philippines). After the war, he married his wife of 73 years Judy Maroukis in 1951. Mike worked at Fort Dix army base as a Civil service employee, as a member of the motor pool, for 35 years, retiring in 1981. He spent the next 10 years driving a School bus for Toms River Schools and was lovingly nicknamed ‘Mr Mike’ by his student riders. He was always known for his compassion and positive attitude, supporting family, friends and neighbors throughout his life.

Mike was predeceased by his parents James and Rose Maroukis (Louis) along with his sister Irene Stampolous. Surviving are his wife Judy, daughter Marcella, sons Jim (spouse Tim), Dave, and Joe along with grandchildren Jason, Rachel (spouse Ray), Brianna, Spencer, Matt, JC. (spouse Taylor), Jacob, and Michelle, and great grandchildren Atreyu and JJ.

Visitation will be on Thursday, November 14, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm and 7:00 to 9:00 pm at Anderson and Campbell Funeral Home, 703 Main Street, Toms River. A Funeral Mass will be held on Friday, February 15, 10 am at St Joseph’s Church, 685 Hooper Ave, Toms River, NJ 08753. In lieu of flowers please send donations to USS SLATER organization.