Anthony Charles Wajda

Anthony Charles "Tony" Wajda, 87, passed away on March 16, 2025, in Shrewsbury, New Jersey. Born on April 17, 1937, in New York City, Tony was a passionate man with a huge personality, who took up a giant space in his family's hearts. Tony could be described as Classically "old-School", allowing his traditional core values to consistently guide the way he lived. While some referred to him as the gentlest "tough guy" they knew, fiercely protecting anyone he cared for. At his core, Tony was a protector with a deep sense of loyalty. He was certainly one of a kind and will be terribly missed.

Tony's career as an Operating Engineer with IUOE 14 in New York was a testament to his hard work and skill. A graduate of Long Branch High School, he carried the values of effort and responsibility throughout his life.

Outside of his professional life, Tony was a integral part of his community in West Long Branch. He was an avid sports enthusiast, not only playing men's softball, basketball, racquetball and tennis, but also coaching his children and others in a variety of youth sports. He dedicated countless hours as a volunteer coach, impacting many young lives. His role as a mentor extended beyond the sports field, as he also served the community as a volunteer fireman with West Long Branch Fire Department #2. He eventually left West Long Branch, moving full time to North Palm Beach, Florida.

Tony was tremendously adored by his family. He is survived by his brother, Vincent Wajda; his four children, Jackie Valentino and husband Mark, Steven Wajda and wife Sue, Sandy Kamberogiannis and husband Artie, Christina Brenner and husband Marty; eleven grandchildren, Marissa Losquadro and husband Jon, Greg Oakes and partner Taylor Petty, Jessica Pinzon and Husband Richard, Emily Colangelo and husband Matt, Nick Kamberogiannis, Alexandra Mullen and husband PJ, Brian Wajda, Anna Wajda, Jennifer Pallone and Husband Daniel, Ty Brenner, and Jack Brenner; and four great-grandchildren, Amelia, Teagan, Brody, and Declan. Tony was preceded in death by his mother, Felicia Wajda; sister, Carol Fiore; and brother-in-law, Richard Fiore.

His legacy as a tremendously hard worker, talented athlete, a devoted mentor, and a beloved family man will be cherished and remembered by all who knew him.

Visitation will take place on Wednesday March 19th from 6 to 8 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home, located at 191 Franklin Ave, Long Branch. A service will be held at the funeral home the following morning at 11 am, followed by interment at Woodbine Cemetery in Oceanport.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Anthony’s memory can be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital by visiting Donate to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

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