In Stuart, Harry “Joe” Maser was known for his infectious laughter, captivating storytelling, and his innate ability to brighten anyone’s day. At 74, Maser had faced his fair share of life’s hardships, including battling cerebral palsy and mourning the loss of two spouses and a daughter. Yet, his charisma never waned, and he remained a source of joy and inspiration to those around him.
Tragically, Maser’s life came to a sudden end following a hit-and-run incident on March 16. The accident occurred on Northwest Federal Highway, near the intersection with Northwest Wright Boulevard, just a stone’s throw from the Roosevelt Bridge. According to police reports, Maser was crossing the highway in his motorized scooter when a vehicle, heading north, struck him.
Maser’s brother, Jeff Maser, 63, from Fort Lauderdale, reminisced about Joe’s adventurous spirit, particularly his fondness for exploring on his scooter. “I can’t believe how far he’s gone on that scooter,” Jeff said, reflecting on Joe’s exploratory nature. Joe had recently moved to The Sovana at Stuart, located just north of where the accident happened, on March 1.
“His whole life, you would never keep that man down. Never,” Jeff remarked, describing Joe as a free spirit. Another brother, Michael Maser, 70, from Canton, Ohio, shared a conversation he had with Joe before the accident. Joe had been in high spirits, excited about his new apartment and having just left Flanigan’s Seafood Bar and Grill, about 2 miles south of the accident site.
Joe Maser was remembered by his siblings as having a positive outlook on life, a sharp wit, and a gift for conversation. He was a movie enthusiast, with a particular love for “Tombstone” starring Val Kilmer, classic films, and actors like Al Pacino and Paul Newman. Joe had held various jobs in Canton, Ohio, including positions at a water treatment plant and as a telemarketer.
Despite facing personal challenges, including a severe back injury that required surgery and exacerbated his cerebral palsy, Joe never dwelled on his hardships. “He never shied away from anything, never took pity on himself. He never complained,” Michael said, emphasizing Joe’s resilience and ability to uplift others with his charisma.
Joe’s love for animals, especially dogs, was another facet of his compassionate personality. Jeff recalled a heartwarming story that aired on a local news station, featuring Joe and his blind dog, Ollie, whom he had adopted from a shelter. “I fell in love with this dog. And he’s kind of my sidekick, because we’re both disabled,” Joe had said, highlighting the special bond between them.
Joe enjoyed socializing, visiting cigar shops, and dining out, always eager to meet new people and share stories. Jeff expressed profound sorrow over the hit-and-run, lamenting, “How do you leave somebody in the road?”
The Stuart Police Department has urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward, providing contact details for Detective Joe Calderone.
In memory of Joe Maser, friends and the community continue to mourn the loss of a man whose spirit and kindness left an indelible mark on those he encountered.