Anthony Talarico

Anthony “Tony” Talarico, 96 of Old Tappan, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2022 surrounded by family. He is survived by his son, Anthony G. Talarico and wife Frances, and three grandchildren: Gina Savastano and husband Frank, Anthony C. Talarico and wife Elena, and Christopher Talarico and wife Tracy. He is also survived by four great-grandchildren: Melina and Joseph Savastano, and Sofia and Victoria Talarico. Tony is predeceased by his parents, his wife Jacqueline (née Delfino), his sister Mary Mansfield, and his brother Michael Talarico.

Tony was born to Italian immigrant parents in West New York, New Jersey. He lost his mother at age two and grew up in poverty at the height of the Great Depression. These challenges instilled grit, determination, and a fierce sense of independence that defined him for the rest of his life. After serving in the U. S. Coast Guard during World War II on troop transport ships in the Atlantic, Tony married the love of his life, Jacqueline, with whom he would share sixty-eight years together. He selflessly provided his family, friends, and even strangers with every luxury he never had as a child.

His work ethic and drive helped him found his own company that provided fill for foundations of some of the largest construction projects in the New York area, including Giants Stadium and Trump Tower. A Depression-era kid from Hudson County, Tony never backed down from a challenge regardless of the odds. He taught those who would listen to take risks.

Tony was immensely generous and stubbornly set in his ways. He only wore wingtips and a collared shirt, drank scotch neat, always made it to his grandchildren’s sports games, and never ate meat on Fridays. Tony’s idea of a perfect day was drinking a scotch, smoking a cigar, and listening to AM radio in his garage, all while chatting with family, friends, or neighbors who joined him almost daily. He was blessed with many perfect days. Tony lived for his family and those he loved. In the words of his favorite singer, Frank Sinatra, Tony lived his life “his way.” He will be greatly missed.