Riverside, New Jersey – Michael V. Kranz, a beloved and respected figure in Burlington County, passed away peacefully at his home on August 21, 2024, at the age of 74, after a valiant four-year battle with cancer. His passing has left a deep void in the community he served and loved for more than five decades.
Michael’s roots in Riverside were deep, having been born and raised there. He attended St. Peter’s Grammar School and Holy Cross High School, where his strong sense of community and dedication to service were first nurtured. His commitment to the community extended beyond his education, as he became an integral part of both Resurrection Parish in Delran and St. Francis Church in Brant Beach, NJ.
Over the years, Michael held numerous positions in the tri-state area, culminating in his role as Superintendent of Roads and Bridges for Burlington County. However, it was his lifelong dedication to firefighting that truly defined him. Michael was a life member and past Chief of Riverside Fire Company No. 1, Station 701, where he was admired and respected by his peers for his unwavering commitment and leadership.
Michael also served as a past Burlington County Deputy Fire Coordinator and was a member of the Burlington County Hazmat Team. One of the most significant contributions of his career was his deployment to New Orleans to assist with Hurricane Katrina Rescue and Relief efforts, where his expertise and dedication were invaluable.
His love for emergency services extended to his involvement with the Riverside Emergency Squad, and he was a life member of both the Burlington County Firefighters Association and the NJ State Firefighters Association. Michael’s legacy in these organizations is a testament to his enduring spirit of service and his desire to protect and serve his community.
Outside of his professional life, Michael was an avid outdoorsman who loved camping, hiking, and sailing on his sailboat. His passion for the outdoors was matched only by his love for his family and friends. He was a dedicated husband to his wife of 50 years, Kathleen Kranz, and a loving father and bonus grandfather. His friends and fellow firefighters remember him as a warm, kind, and loyal friend whose loss is deeply felt.
The Riverside Fire Company No. 1 expressed their sorrow in a heartfelt Facebook post, stating, "Riverside Fire Company No. 1 is saddened to announce the passing of our brother firefighter, Michael V. Kranz. He was a true hero in our community and will be greatly missed."
The community has rallied to honor Michael’s memory, with many sharing their condolences on social media. Joseph Lehmann Jr. reflected on their decades-long friendship, saying, "I’m very saddened to hear my good friend Mike passed away yesterday. He contributed to making Burlington County a safer place to live. It was truly an honor to know him."
Other tributes poured in, highlighting the profound impact Michael had on those around him. "Mike was a true gentleman and friend," shared Steven Scholey. "Very dedicated to the fire service. My condolences to his family."
Michael Kranz’s legacy is one of service, dedication, and love. His passing is not just a loss to his family and friends, but to the entire community that he served so faithfully. His contributions to Burlington County will be remembered for years to come, as those who knew him continue to honor his memory.