Anthony Virrazzi

Anthony Virrazzi, affectionately hailed as Tony or Nino was born on March 5th, 1926. One of God’s gifts to Tony was a healthy sense of humor and family values.

After graduating Ferris High School, Jersey City he joined the Service while the invasion of Japan was anticipated but was diverted to the Philippines. During this tumultuous time, he received meritorious citations becoming a corporal with the military police (MPs). Upon return from the Pacific, he apprenticed for 4 years with General Motors, becoming a precision Tool and Die maker and Union Officer. After a full career he successfully retired from GM.

He met the love of his life Mary Dorio and with his determined pursuit they married in 1954 having two children Fred and Donna. Anthony and Mary recently celebrated their 70th wedding anniversary as the highest, honored awardees at St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Cathedral, Metuchen. Anthony and Mary are eternally, founding members of St John Vianney Church, Colonia from 1959. Anthony was an usher for 60 years, served with St John Vianney Seniors and Colonia Seniors, helped National Biodiversity Parks and other organizations.

Tony was well known by friends and family as a storyteller with many based on actual events;  he was an accomplished sun tanner, hockey fan and stained-glass artist winning top prizes for his works.

He is predeceased by parents Fred and Yolanda and brother Fred.  He is survived by his wife Mary, son Fred, daughter Donna Marie Ortuso and son-in-law Joseph Ortuso.

Anthony was calm, sincere and genuine. He would wish all his friends and family happiness and to enjoy pursuing all your journeys no matter the difficulties.   

In lieu of flowers he would wish that tax deductible donations be made to the 501 c 3 Federal non-profit National Biodiversity Parks, Inc., email them at nbp@comcast.net for guidance or see/call Donna or Joe Ortuso.

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