William Tanko Sr.

William Tanko Sr. ObituaryWilliam Tanko Sr, age 86 of the Parlin section of Sayreville passed away at his home on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Born in Perth Amboy, William lived in Laurence Harbor before settling in Sayreville 36 years ago. A proud US Air Force Veteran, he served during the Vietnam War. William dedicated 25 years as a corrections officer at Rahway State Prison before retiring. He was a member of NJ State PBA Retired Officers Local 600, the Knights of Columbus Council 8478, and the St Bernadette Seniors Club. William was deeply loved by his family and friends, who affectionately called him "Tank" or "Superman". He was one of a kind and was a force to be reckoned with. He loved fiercely, was devoted to his family and friends, and will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched.
He is predeceased by his parents Louis and Julia Tanko; his siblings, Albert, Ronnie, Bobby and Louis Tanko, Marie Tehila and Isabelle Sama; his brother-in-law, Gary Kaznowski; his daughter and son-in-law Lisa Ann Tanko Thompson and Robert David Thompson; and his grandson Bobby Thompson. Surviving are his wife of 64 years, Rosemarie Kaznowski Tanko; his sons, Tyrone Tanko and William Tanko Jr and his partner Kathleen Jessen; his grandchildren Christina Thompson (Fortunato Papaleo), William Tanko III (Jamie Emmerson), Tabitha Tanko, Megan Guardascione (Mike), Falon Tanko, and Anthony Tanko; his great granddaughters Londyn, Vincenza and Giovanna; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
Calling hours will take place on Thursday from 3 to 7pm at the Carmen F. Spezzi Funeral Home, 15 Cherry Ln, Parlin with a prayer service at 5:30pm. A private cremation will follow. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in William's memory to the Wounded Warrior Project at www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org.
Complete arrangements, directions, and messages of condolence to the family may be found at www.spezzifuneralhome.com.
William Tanko Sr, age 86 of the Parlin section of Sayreville passed away at his home on Saturday, October 18, 2025. Born in Perth Amboy, William lived in Laurence Harbor before settling in Sayreville 36 years ago. A proud US Air Force Veteran, he served during the Vietnam War. William dedicated 25 years as a corrections officer at Rahway State P