Paul Anastasio Sr.

Born, in Camden, NJ of Pasquale and Edel and raised in the Great Depression, he was only able to gain an 8th grade education so he could support his family. He was an air gunner in the US Navy in WW2 on the Pacific Front. On returning from the war he married the love of his life, Ann, who he would be with for nearly 70 years before she passed one year ago. A builder who went on to own his own construction company and would later found jewelry and restaurant businesses.

He had an unmatched zeal for life and would conquer the slopes of the Italian Alps as he would the craps tables of Las Vegas. He loved golf and a good cigar and was perhaps one of the best chefs of his age. Paul was a great man, direct, respected, loved.

He is survived by his children Paul Jr. and Debbi, sisters Lucille and Nancy, and grandsons Joseph, Paul III, and Gregory as well as generations of nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his loving wife, Ann, and his siblings, Michael, Ernest, Pasquale, Dominic, and Yolanda.

Visitation will take place on Friday, Jan. 13, from 8:30 to 10:00 a.m. at McCracken Funeral Home, 1500 Morris Ave., Union, N.J. 07083. A service will take place at Holy Spirit Catholic Church at 10:30 a.m. with interment to follow at Hollywood Memorial Park, Union.