A Manalapan resident and businessman who supported many local organizations over the course of several decades has died.
Jack Aaronson, 73, of Manalapan, died on Jan. 26, 2020 at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York City, according to the Clayton and McGirr Funeral Home, Freehold Township.
Aaronson was a native of Brooklyn, N.Y., and a graduate of Samuel J. Tilden High School. He lived in Toms River before moving to Manalapan more than 25 years ago.
He was the founder of All Jersey Janitorial Service, a commercial cleaning company based in Freehold.
Aaronson was also known in the area for his other businesses which included 33 East Car Wash in Freehold, Marlboro, Ocean Township and Howell, C. Bentley’s Car Wash in Old Bridge, and Sinatra Classic Auto Sales in Freehold Township. He was a director and vice chairman of the First Commerce Bank, Lakewood.
Aaronson was a trustee with the CentraState Medical Center Board of Trustees and the CentraState Healthcare Foundation.
John T. Gribbin, president and chief executive officer of the CentraState Healthcare System, Freehold Township, said, “Jack Aaronson, benefactor of CentraState’s Jack Aaronson Conference Center, was a true philanthropist – quietly giving from the heart to those who were in need and never expecting anything in return.
“He was a great friend to CentraState and very proud to support the awarding of annual scholarships to local high school students participating in the Freehold Medical Science program at the medical center in collaboration with Freehold High School,” Gribbin said.
In 2010, Special Strides at Congress Hill Farm, Monroe Township, recognized Aaronson for his dedication to its mission to help improve the lives of children with physical and developmental challenges, according to his obituary.
This week, Laurie Landy, the founder of Special Strides, said, “Jack Aaronson was an ardent supporter of making a difference in our community and in joining us to ‘improve lives one stride at a time.’ He was philanthropic in a multitude of ways, including his gift of time, his gift of resources and gifts from the heart.
“He was a role model to all, irregardless of the barriers of age, culture or socioeconomic class. He had a spirit of acceptance, support and guidance, and made everyone feel they were important,” Landy said.
“Jack was honored by Special Strides at one of our galas and he and his life partner Maureen served as honorary chairpersons at our gala events for many years. He encouraged other community leaders to support our cause and to help families with life challenges.
“Jack visited the farm and spent time walking the trails with our staff and clients, witnessing the incredible benefits of occupational therapy and physical therapy combined with the partnership of equine movement and the amazing natural elements of a farm.
“Jack Aaronson’s actions are guiding lights for all to aspire to be and become. He will be missed and treasured. Special Strides will celebrate his life and commitment to making the world a better place at a dedication event later this year,” Landy said.
Aaronson also served on the YMCA of Western Monmouth County Capital Campaign Committee, resulting in the largest renovation in the history of the Freehold Township facility, according to an obituary from the Clayton and McGirr Funeral Home.
He supported the American Cancer Society, the Norkus Charitable Foundation, the Lehman High School Principal Fund, Camp Quality, the National Multiple Sclerosis Society-Pepperhill Farm, the Marine Corps League, Monmouth Medical Center-Joel Opatut Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program, local churches and synagogues, and high school and youth sports teams, according to his obituary.
In 2007, Aaronson was recognized with an honorary lifetime membership award by the Freehold Township PBA.