Anthony Daniel Rocco

In Loving Memory of Anthony Daniel Rocco

October 23, 1963 - May 16, 2025

Anthony Daniel Rocco, beloved husband, father, brother, uncle and friend, passed away on May 16, 2025, at the age of 61, after a courageous four-year battle with an aggressive cancer.

Born in New York City to Albert and Margaret and raised in Garden City, Long Island, Tony went on to build a beautiful life in Warren, New Jersey, where he and his wife, Anne Margaret, raised their two cherished children, Madison and Griffin. Together for over 40 years after meeting at UMASS and married for 35, Anne and Tony shared a partnership rooted in love, laughter, and deep friendship.

Tony's love for his family knew no bounds. He was a devoted and proud husband and father, incredibly close to both Madison and Griffin, while also maintaining a deep connection with his best friend and brother, Dan. His warmth, empathy, and gentle soul were constants in the lives of those lucky enough to know him.

A true lover of life, Tony embraced the outdoors-whether skiing, hiking, mountain biking, or enjoying a peaceful day at the beach body surfing, he enjoyed the fresh air and being close to nature. He was also passionate about live music, especially the Grateful Dead, whose lyrics and community reflected his values of connection, openness, and joy.

Tony had an extraordinary ability to make people feel welcome and the Roccos thoroughly enjoyed entertaining at their home. Whether hosting friends and family or meeting someone new, he put others at ease with his kindness, humor, and authenticity. He was the heart of every gathering-thoughtful, inclusive, and always making sure everyone felt like they belonged.

He spent his career in the food service industry, where his integrity, people-first approach, and natural leadership earned him instant respect. Throughout his life, Tony and family put roots in many places-Boston, Long Beach, Northern New Jersey, Seattle, Green Brook, Warren, Marco Island, Long Beach Island, and more recently, Portugal - forming lasting friendships in each and holding onto them with care.

Travel was a central joy in Tony's life. He and his family explored the world together, immersing themselves in new cultures and experiences. He and Anne Margaret believed in the power of travel to broaden perspectives, learn adaptability, and to bring people closer together, and they instilled that same sense of curiosity and openness in their children. Tony will be remembered always for his loving nature, gentle presence, and the way he made everyone feel seen, heard, and valued. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched and the love he so freely gave.

Tony had hoped to devote time to mentoring youth through Big Brothers Big Sisters of Coastal and Northern New Jersey, though his health limitations ultimately prevented him from fulfilling that goal, it remained a cause close to his heart. If desired, donations in his honor can be made there as he understood the disadvantage children have in life without parental advice and positive adult role models. He would be overjoyed from the outreach being received from Madison and Griffin's friends, his nieces and nephews and that they have "Tony" stories to show that he has left his mark.

To honor Tony's life, his family will host a Celebration of Life in New Jersey on his birthday, October 23, 2025. We look forward to sharing stories, music, food and memories with family and friends.