Anthony P. Vainieri, of Norwood NJ and Boca Raton, Fla.  formerly of North Bergen and West New York, passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Jan. 21, 2026, just shy of his 99th birthday. He was the founder of the Vainieri Funeral Home in North Bergen, where he dedicated himself to serving families with compassion and dignity during their most difficult times. His commitment to helping others extended into his public service as a former North Bergen Commissioner and NJ State Assemblyman.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my friend, Anthony P. Vainieri Sr., a respected public servant, businessman, and beloved longtime member of our North Bergen family,” said Mayor Nicholas Sacco. “Throughout our decades-long friendship, he remained deeply committed to serving others, a dedication he demonstrated time and again as a Township Commissioner, a member of the New Jersey General Assembly, and perhaps foremost as the owner of the Vainieri Funeral Home, where he supported families with compassion and dignity during their most difficult moments.

At the age of 17, Vainieri enlisted in the US Navy and served his country in World War II as a Pharmacist Mate. In 1952, he married his high school sweetheart, the late Natalie (née Agresta), and together they built a lasting legacy in their community. He held numerous leadership roles, including president of the North Bergen Midtown Regular Democratic Club, past president of the West New York Kiwanis Club, past president of the North Bergen Moose Club, and standard bearer of the Anthony P. Vainieri Ladies Auxiliary.

“Above all,” said Mayor Sacco, “Anthony was a devoted family man and he leaves behind a lasting legacy through his children, including Commissioner Anthony Vainieri Jr. and former Assemblywoman Valerie Vainieri Huttle, who have continued his noble tradition of service. On behalf of the Township of North Bergen, I extend my deepest condolences to the Vainieri family and all who mourn his passing.”