Stanley Merer

Stanley Merer, 86, of Monroe Township died July 3, 2018. Born in Brooklyn, his family moved to Vineland in 1945.

In 1962 Mr. Merer and a partner opened a franchise fried chicken and seafood restaurant, Kwik KooK. After several years they co-founded the Chicken Holiday restaurant chain, which he owned and operated until 1998, earning the nickname “Stan the Chicken Man.”

He attended Long Island A&T, earning an associate degree in food science. He graduated from Monmouth College with a bachelor’s degree in biology.

He was a veteran of the Korean War, serving in the U.S. Navy as an aviation machinist mate.

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He was an active member of Anshe Emeth Memorial Temple, New Brunswick, for over 49 years, volunteering on numerous boards and committees. In 2001 he and his wife received its “Crown of Torah” award, recognizing a lifetime of service to the temple community.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Ronita “Ronnie” (Axel); his son, Barry (Donna) of Scotch Plains; two daughters, Nan Merer of South Brunswick and Ellen (Bruce) Wahle of Worcester, Mass.; a brother, Lenny of Freehold; and six grandchildren.

Services were held July 6 at AEMT, with arrangements by Crabiel Parkwest Funeral Chapel, New Brunswick. Memorial contributions may be made to HaZamir High School Scholarship Fund or the Cantor’s Music Fund, both at AEMT.