Simon Mariani Obituary – Remembering a Life Cut Tragically Short by Lightning Strike at Ballyowen Golf Course

It is with broken hearts and unspeakable sorrow that the family, friends, and community of Simon Mariani, 28, of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, announce his untimely and tragic passing following a lightning strike during a golf tournament at Ballyowen Golf Course in Hamburg, New Jersey, on Saturday.

What began as a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and love for the game turned into an unthinkable tragedy during the annual Iron Man golf tournament, a grueling and well-known endurance event. As a sudden summer storm swept across the course, there was little time for participants to react. Witnesses reported that no warning sirens or weather alerts were sounded before a bolt of lightning struck the area near the 15th hole—where Simon was actively playing.

In the moments that followed, fellow golfers rushed to Simon’s aid, immediately administering CPR while awaiting emergency responders. He was swiftly airlifted via medevac to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite the tireless efforts of first responders and medical professionals, Simon tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Simon’s shocking and untimely death has left the Franklin Lakes community reeling. His family, friends, coworkers, and all who knew him are struggling to comprehend the loss of someone so full of life, promise, and compassion.

Born and raised in Franklin Lakes, Simon was known for his magnetic smile, quick wit, and selfless heart. He was the cherished son of Michael and Laura Mariani, and a devoted older brother to Emma and Daniel, whom he mentored with pride and love. Simon’s close-knit family was at the center of his world, and the bonds he shared with them were as unwavering as they were profound.

A graduate of Ramapo High School and later Montclair State University, Simon had carved out a successful career in marketing and communications. Known among colleagues for his creativity, diligence, and team spirit, he was described as someone who brought out the best in everyone around him. Whether strategizing on a campaign or mentoring a new team member, Simon approached his work with humility, integrity, and heart.

Outside the office, Simon’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. He was an avid golfer, respected in regional tournaments and known for his love of the game’s mental and physical challenge. Friends recall him as the one always organizing tee times, sharing golf tips, and turning every outing into a celebration of sport and friendship. He also loved travel, fitness, and the outdoors—thriving in the freedom and peace that came with being in nature.

Simon’s parents, Michael and Laura, issued a heartfelt statement in the aftermath of the tragedy:

“Simon was the light of our lives, and we are devastated by his sudden loss. We find some comfort in knowing he spent his final hours doing something he loved, surrounded by friends and the beauty of nature. We thank everyone who tried to save our son and ask for continued prayers during this heartbreaking time.”

In addition to grieving his personal loss, the community is grappling with concerns about weather safety protocols at outdoor recreational venues. Local officials have called for a review of alert systems, and Ballyowen Golf Course has confirmed that it is cooperating fully with authorities and conducting an internal investigation.

The National Weather Service has since emphasized the importance of seeking shelter at the first sign of thunder or lightning, even if no alerts are active—an urgent reminder of nature’s unpredictability.

To honor Simon’s life and spirit, his friends and community are planning several tributes in the days ahead. A candlelight vigil will be held in Franklin Lakes later this week to celebrate his life and mourn his loss. Plans are also underway for a memorial golf tournament in his name, with proceeds going toward youth golf development programs and initiatives to improve weather awareness and safety on courses across the region.

Simon Mariani is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Laura, his siblings Emma and Daniel, his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and grace.

Though his time was far too brief, Simon lived with purpose and heart. He laughed often, gave generously, loved deeply, and inspired others to do the same. His absence is a void that cannot be filled—but his legacy will continue to live on in the stories we share, the kindness we extend, and the lives he helped shape.

Funeral arrangements will be shared with the public once finalized. In the meantime, the Mariani family has requested privacy as they grieve, and they encourage all who knew Simon to carry forward his spirit by embracing life, cherishing loved ones, and offering help to others—just as Simon always did.

Rest in peace, Simon. May your light forever guide us.

Simon Mariani Obituary – Remembering a Life Cut Tragically Short by Lightning Strike at Ballyowen Golf Course

It is with broken hearts and unspeakable sorrow that the family, friends, and community of Simon Mariani, 28, of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, announce his untimely and tragic passing following a lightning strike during a golf tournament at Ballyowen Golf Course in Hamburg, New Jersey, on Saturday.

What began as a day filled with camaraderie, competition, and love for the game turned into an unthinkable tragedy during the annual Iron Man golf tournament, a grueling and well-known endurance event. As a sudden summer storm swept across the course, there was little time for participants to react. Witnesses reported that no warning sirens or weather alerts were sounded before a bolt of lightning struck the area near the 15th hole—where Simon was actively playing.

In the moments that followed, fellow golfers rushed to Simon’s aid, immediately administering CPR while awaiting emergency responders. He was swiftly airlifted via medevac to a nearby hospital in critical condition. Despite the tireless efforts of first responders and medical professionals, Simon tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Simon’s shocking and untimely death has left the Franklin Lakes community reeling. His family, friends, coworkers, and all who knew him are struggling to comprehend the loss of someone so full of life, promise, and compassion.

Born and raised in Franklin Lakes, Simon was known for his magnetic smile, quick wit, and selfless heart. He was the cherished son of Michael and Laura Mariani, and a devoted older brother to Emma and Daniel, whom he mentored with pride and love. Simon’s close-knit family was at the center of his world, and the bonds he shared with them were as unwavering as they were profound.

A graduate of Ramapo High School and later Montclair State University, Simon had carved out a successful career in marketing and communications. Known among colleagues for his creativity, diligence, and team spirit, he was described as someone who brought out the best in everyone around him. Whether strategizing on a campaign or mentoring a new team member, Simon approached his work with humility, integrity, and heart.

Outside the office, Simon’s passions were as vibrant as his personality. He was an avid golfer, respected in regional tournaments and known for his love of the game’s mental and physical challenge. Friends recall him as the one always organizing tee times, sharing golf tips, and turning every outing into a celebration of sport and friendship. He also loved travel, fitness, and the outdoors—thriving in the freedom and peace that came with being in nature.

Simon’s parents, Michael and Laura, issued a heartfelt statement in the aftermath of the tragedy:

“Simon was the light of our lives, and we are devastated by his sudden loss. We find some comfort in knowing he spent his final hours doing something he loved, surrounded by friends and the beauty of nature. We thank everyone who tried to save our son and ask for continued prayers during this heartbreaking time.”

In addition to grieving his personal loss, the community is grappling with concerns about weather safety protocols at outdoor recreational venues. Local officials have called for a review of alert systems, and Ballyowen Golf Course has confirmed that it is cooperating fully with authorities and conducting an internal investigation.

The National Weather Service has since emphasized the importance of seeking shelter at the first sign of thunder or lightning, even if no alerts are active—an urgent reminder of nature’s unpredictability.

To honor Simon’s life and spirit, his friends and community are planning several tributes in the days ahead. A candlelight vigil will be held in Franklin Lakes later this week to celebrate his life and mourn his loss. Plans are also underway for a memorial golf tournament in his name, with proceeds going toward youth golf development programs and initiatives to improve weather awareness and safety on courses across the region.

Simon Mariani is survived by his loving parents, Michael and Laura, his siblings Emma and Daniel, his grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and countless friends whose lives he touched with his warmth, humor, and grace.

Though his time was far too brief, Simon lived with purpose and heart. He laughed often, gave generously, loved deeply, and inspired others to do the same. His absence is a void that cannot be filled—but his legacy will continue to live on in the stories we share, the kindness we extend, and the lives he helped shape.

Funeral arrangements will be shared with the public once finalized. In the meantime, the Mariani family has requested privacy as they grieve, and they encourage all who knew Simon to carry forward his spirit by embracing life, cherishing loved ones, and offering help to others—just as Simon always did.

Rest in peace, Simon. May your light forever guide us.