Anthony “Tony” Pampena of West Milford, New Jersey, a much loved father and grandfather, passed into the presence of his Heavenly Father on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021. He was 90 years old.
Born and raised in Spigno Saturnia, Italy, including during the years of World War II, he witnessed the bombing of Monte Cassino (1944) in the neighboring mountains. He immigrated to America at age 16.
Tony worked in the New York City garment district prior to joining the Army at age 21. He earned the rank of sergeant and instructed servicemen in the 553rd Artillery Battalion at Fort Sill in Oklahoma. He was known as an excellent marksman and earned the title of “Mr. Strongman” for being the strongest in his unit.
While serving in the military, he was involved in working on the development and testing of the M65 atomic cannon, often called Atomic Annie. He received the national defense service medal and good conduct medal during his service.
In 1955, he married the love of his life Arlene (Bonanno) Pampena and raised a family together while he worked as a loyal and dedicated butcher/meat manager for more than 30 years at the former Grand Union grocery store.
The most important “job” for him was being a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. Family and faith were the cornerstones of his life, as he was a dedicated parishioner of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Roman Catholic Church in Hewitt, N.J.
His love, laughter, smile, humor, energy, compassion for others, along with the ability to share a kind word or tell a story like no one else will be severely missed by his countless friends and family. Everyone loved Tony, and many lovingly referred to him as “Pop.”
He was preceded in death by his parents Pasquale and Anna Pampena, his wife Arlene and his sister Lina Giarnella.
He leaves behind his older sisters Adelaide Orgera and Gina Purtill Wenrich, beloved daughter Lisa (Rick) Ashley, best friend and son Anthony P. Pampena, cherished grandchildren Richard (Rosie Long) Ashley, Lauren (Tyler) Stepanchick, Nicolette Ashley, Kristena Pampena, and Anthony M. (Cinthya) Pampena and Michael Massimi, great-grandchildren Sienna and Sophia Stepanchick and Dax Pampena, multiple nieces and nephews, and his dear friend and companion for over 20 years, Ceil Zelasko, and her family.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made in Anthony’s name to Our Lady Queen of Peace Roman Catholic Church, 1911 Union Valley Road, Hewitt, N.J., 07421.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date to be announced.
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