Anthony Martorana

Anthony Martorana, beloved father, uncle, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 12, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Brooklyn, New York, Anthony was the cherished son of Elisa and Salvatore Martorana, and the younger brother of Vincenzo Salvatore Martorana, whom he deeply admired.

Anthony often described his childhood as a “fairytale,” filled with the warmth of an extended family who lived nearby and shared their lives closely. He was especially close to his beloved Aunt Angelina and Uncle Mike, who lived in the same building. Many joyful summer days were spent around the table with family. He was proud to have been raised by a village and often spoke fondly of the tight-knit, loving community that shaped him.

Eager to begin life on his own terms, Anthony left school early and started working at a young age. His love for food earned him the nickname “Fat Tony” among friends and family. His energetic spirit occasionally got him into trouble—after accumulating too many speeding tickets, a judge gave him the choice: jail or the U.S. Army. He chose the smarter path and joined the Army, where he was stationed at Ft. Benning, Georgia. There, he gained practical skills and shed the weight that had defined his nickname. He often joked that it was thanks to the grueling Army food, which couldn’t compare to his mother’s cooking, that he finally lost his appetite. After the passing of his father during his service, Anthony was transferred closer to home and was later honorably discharged.

Back in New York, Anthony returned to his passion for mechanics—especially motorcycles, which he both rode and repaired with great joy. This interest led to a close friendship with Charley Brown, president of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, of which Anthony was a member. Around this time, he met his first wife, Grace, and embraced her daughters, Geriann and Sharon, as his own. Together, they welcomed two sons, Salvatore and Frank.

Years later, seeking a better life for his family, Anthony moved them to Arizona, where he continued his career in logistics and trucking, and even dabbled in entrepreneurship. Following the end of his first marriage, he met and married Deana in 1979. A few years later, they welcomed their daughter, Lauren Nicole “Nikki” Martorana. Ever the adventurer, Anthony moved the family to San Diego to pursue a long-held dream of living on a houseboat. There, he collaborated to start a business, Shelter Island Yacht Sales, which he ran successfully for years.

After the closure of his business and the end of his second marriage, Anthony returned to Arizona where he resumed truck driving — a job he took great pride in. His exceptional skills behind the wheel, especially maneuvering large vehicles with ease and precision, were unmatched. He worked with Hansen Aggregates, mastering the intricacies of hauling and pouring concrete. But even with professional fulfillment, Anthony’s heart remained with his family, and he eventually returned to California to be near his children once again.

Back in California, Anthony found work with Global Power Group, enjoying the added benefit of working alongside his son. Whether transporting hazardous materials or large equipment, his skill and experience were unmatched. He also found camaraderie among his coworkers, who appreciated his wit, work ethic, and unique style. Anthony eventually retired from Global Power, proudly hanging his hat on a job well done. In his later years, he picked up a few guilty pleasures—perhaps the most ironic, considering his tough-guy persona, was his secret love for the Christmas Hallmark Channel. His trademark pastime was sipping Cabernet Sauvignon with a cigar in hand—a pairing he considered both an art and a ritual.

Anthony lived a life marked by resilience, humor, and an unwavering love for those closest to him. His stories, laughter, and fierce spirit will be forever remembered by his family and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his children—Geriann, Sharon, Salvatore, Frank, and Nikki—and by his beloved grandchildren, who brought him endless pride.

A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at El Cajon Mortuary. A celebration of Anthony’s life will follow, just the way he would have wanted—surrounded by good food, good drinks, and good company. If you wish to join please contact the family via email: [email protected].