Obituary of Anthony John Stellato
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Anthony John Stellato, age 86, on July 31, 2025. He was born on October 17, 1938, in Brooklyn, New York, to his loving parents Frank and Anne Stellato. When he was about eleven years old the family moved to Long Island where he grew up alongside his brother, Robert Stellato.
In 1968, Anthony’s life would be forever changed when he met his beloved wife, Erika, on a blind date. They married shortly after, embarking on a journey filled with love, laughter, and adventure. The couple first settled in Flushing, Queens, before moving to Rockaway, where they raised their son, Christopher. Their home was a warm, welcoming space filled with love and joy, a testament to their enduring connection.
Anthony’s love for Erika was truly unmatched. Even in his final days, he never missed a week without bringing her flowers—a small but poignant gesture that spoke volumes about his deep affection. Together, they traveled the world, but it was their trips to Erika’s home country of Germany that Anthony treasured most. He found joy in the food, music, and culture, immersing himself in experiences that brought him closer to the heart of his wife’s heritage.
Professionally, Anthony was an independent sales representative, a career that allowed him to make countless connections and forge lifelong friendships. Whether in business or in life, Anthony was fiercely loyal, and his friends were among the greatest highlights of his life. He was the kind of person you could always count on, and his friendships were a testament to his kind-hearted and giving nature.
A passionate sports fan, Anthony’s love for New York teams ran deep. He cheered on the New York Yankees and the New York Giants, but his heart truly belonged to the game of hockey. A devoted fan of the New York Islanders, Anthony also made space in his heart for the New Jersey Devils when he moved. His love for the sport extended beyond fandom, as he spent time coaching youth hockey in Rockaway Township, sharing his passion with the next generation of players. His appreciation for sports didn’t stop there—his connection to his wife’s German roots also made him an avid supporter of the German National Soccer Team, a source of pride and joy for Anthony throughout the years.
However, it was music that truly captured Anthony’s soul. Whether it was listening to Elvis records, playing the piano to his favorite songs, or writing his own compositions, music was his constant companion. His talent as a songwriter blossomed over the years, with many of his songs reflecting his deep love for his family, his home, and all that he held dear. His musical creations were an extension of his heart, and his passion for music was as enduring as his love for those around him.
Anthony’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but we take comfort in knowing that he is reunited with those who passed before him; his brother, Robert Stellato, and his parents, Frank and Anne Stellato. He is survived by his beloved wife, Erika Stellato, his son Christopher Stellato, his granddaughter, Louise Stellato, his daughter-in-law, Althea Stellato, and a wide circle of friends and family who will miss him dearly.
Hours of public visitation for Anthony will be held from 3 to 7 PM on Tuesday, August 5, at Norman Dean Home for Services. A Funeral Mass will be held the following day, Wednesday, August 6, 2025, at 10 AM at St. Mary’s Church of Denville, followed by a graveside service at Gate of Heaven Mausoleum of East Hanover. Please join us in celebrating Anthony’s life, and leave a condolence, share a memory, or light a candle to continue to let Anthony’s light shine!
