Obituary of Anthony E. Soriano

Anthony Edward "Tony" Soriano
August 19, 1954 – September 28, 2024

Anthony Edward "Tony" Soriano, a beloved lifelong resident of Raritan, New Jersey, died peacefully on September 28, 2024, at the age of 70. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, community service, and a deep love for his family and friends.

Tony was the devoted husband of Mary Kate (Van Tyne) Soriano, with whom he shared a remarkable life since they were teenagers. Together since the age of 16, they married in March of 1975, forming a bond that lasted nearly five decades. He was a proud father to two sons, Matthew (Lauren) of Boston, MA, and Anthony (Heidi) of Washington, DC. Tony's greatest joy came from his role as "Pops" to his two granddaughters, Emilia and Adeline, who will forever cherish the memories they shared with him.

A dedicated electrician, Tony was a longtime member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) he started his career as a railroad electrician with New Jersey Transit before joining Conrail in 1980 where he worked until his retirement in 2014.

Beyond his professional contributions, Tony was deeply committed to public service and the community. His talent for electrical work was renowned throughout Raritan. He generously volunteered his time to install lighting and electrical systems for the annual St. Ann's Festa, a cherished local event. Chances are, if you lived in Raritan, Tony had either done electrical work for you or someone you knew.

His community service continued as a volunteer firefighter. Joining the Raritan Fire Department in 1973, Tony was a life member of Relief Hose Co. #2. In that time he served as a member of the Raritan Fireman’s Relief Association, and represented Relief Hose Company #2 as a delegate at the New Jersey State Firemen’s Association convention on numerous occasions.

Tony enjoyed vacationing in Florida, reading, solving crossword puzzles, and had a love of music. He especially enjoyed cooking and conducting his family’s annual (tomato) Sauce-a-Palooza. Tony was also a proud member of Somerville Elks Lodge #1068. He will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and devotion to his friends and family.

He is survived by his wife Mary Kate, his sons Matthew and Anthony, his daughters-in-law Lauren and Heidi, his granddaughters Emilia and Adeline, sisters-in-law Kathleen, Michelle, and Natalie, brother-in-law Chester, as well as several nieces and nephews. His memory will be carried on by all who loved him. He was predeceased by his parents Arthur and Mary (Carlino), and his brother Arthur.

A celebration of Tony's life will be held at Bongiovi Funeral Home on Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 1-4 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in memory of Tony Soriano to the Raritan Relief Hose Company #2, 611 N Thompson St, Raritan, NJ 08869.

                                                                                   "Forever in Our Hearts"