Accomplishments Of Late Hazlet Mayor Recognized By Township Committee

HAZLET, NJ — Mayor Michael Sachs and the Hazlet Township Committee are remembering the contributions of former Hazlet Mayor, Kevin Lavan. He died over the weekend after a long illness, a township statement said.

Lavan, a Democrat, served as Hazlet Township's Deputy Mayor in 2007-2008 and Mayor in 2009. He had stayed active in Hazlet's Democratic Party ever since, and was a primary candidate for the 2022 election.

He was known as a gentleman with a warm handshake and passion for his hometown, the message from the Township Committee said. He was also a veteran who served in the U.S. Army 1962-1964. A banner with his photo and years of service was installed in Veterans Park in 2021.

"He was here for the people, he worked hard for the town," said Sachs, a Republican, who served alongside Lavan on the governing body and various boards. "He was on the Committee for one reason, and that was to do what he felt was best for the town. He will be missed."

Visitation will take place Sunday, Aug. 7 from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 to 9 p.m. at Shore Point Funeral Home, 3269 Route 35 North, Hazlet. The funeral will be held 10 a.m. Monday, Aug. 8 at Holy Family Church, 727 Highway 36, Union Beach, the township said.