David J. Stanko

David John Stanko passed away peacefully in his home on Sunday, December 7, 2025. Born in Lackawanna, NY, David grew up in Hamburg, NY, later living in Fairfield, NJ before settling in Boonton, NJ, where he made his home for the past 15 years.
David worked for many years as a dedicated baker at Pechter's Bakery in Harrison, NJ. He took great pride in his craft and in the many friendships he formed throughout his career.
He is predeceased by his parents, Alexius and Dolores (Lubecke) Stanko. David is survived by his brother, Gary; his sisters, Linda Yankowski, Debbie D. Crawford, Sharon Stanko, and Karen Klinger; as well as six cherished nieces and nephews.
For the past 50 years, David was a dear family friend to Chris and Silvana Dellisanti and their children-Nicole, Michael, and Gina. More than friends, they were his chosen family, and he was woven into every part of their lives. From cheering on countless soccer and hockey games, driving the kids to school, and joining fishing trips and Devils games, to vacations in Myrtle Beach and the lively chaos of their Sunday dinners, David was at the center of their most cherished memories.
A true music lover, David enjoyed artists such as Phil Collins, Simply Red, Sade, Genesis, Ambrosia, and Vanessa Carlton. His impressive collection of records, tapes, and CDs remains a treasured soundtrack of the moments they shared. He was also an avid and accomplished gardener, proudly tending to his yard and guarding it from critters with the seriousness of a secret service agent protecting a dignitary.
David was dearly loved by Anna and Lillian, taking special joy in watching Lillian grow into an accomplished young woman and travel the world after her graduation from Penn State University. He also cherished his goddaughter, Wesley-her husband, and their four little girls-celebrating birthdays, Christmases, and every visit with thoughtful gifts he delighted in choosing for them.
His beloved cat, Tasha, was his loyal companion for an incredible 21 years. More than a pet, she was family-a constant, affectionate presence who filled his home with comfort and warmth.
David's home was a reflection of a life well-lived, filled with memories captured in news clippings, postcards, photographs, thriving plants, and, of course, his music. His love, generosity, humor, and steady presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his visitation on Saturday, December 13, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.