Nicholas G. Fornarotto of Long Branch, NJ has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
These are the contours of a life that meant a great deal to many.
To raise a child is to give the world a future. Nicholas did this with care.
It is with deep love and extreme sadness that we announce the passing of an extraordinary man. He was the most loving and caring man you will ever meet-a dedicated husband who loved his wife for 71 years, and a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. An amazing person who fought to his last breath.
Nicholas G. Fornarotto, 94, passed away on May 4, 2026, at 1:35 p.m. Born on May 23, 1931, he was the beloved son of the late Joseph Fornarotto and Anna Gamaro.
Nicholas proudly served his country in the United States Navy, enlisting on February 10, 1951, and being honorably discharged on February 1, 1955. Shortly after returning home, he resumed his career as a bricklayer in February 1955, becoming a dedicated member of the Bricklayers Union. He went on to serve as a foreman for Ben Harvey for 23 years-a role he often described as the best job he ever had. He also took great pride in his work helping to build the Garden State Arts Center prior to his retirement in September 1991.
On July 14, 1951, Nicholas met the love of his life, Marie A. Mancini, while she was living in West End. Even during his time in the Navy, he came home on weekends whenever he could to be with her. They were married on February 20, 1955, at Star of the Sea Church in Long Branch, beginning a beautiful marriage that lasted 71 years.
Nicholas was a devoted family man. He is survived by his loving wife, Marie A. Fornarotto; his three children, Joseph Fornarotto, Nicholas Fornarotto, and Donna Fornarotto; and his daughters-in-law, Diana and Judy. He was a proud grandfather to Nicole (Richard), Joseph (Jessica), Erika, Joanna, and John, who loved him dearly. He also leaves behind his great-grandchildren, Sienna, Nicholas, Madison, and Joseph.
A lifelong member of his community, Nicholas joined the West Long Branch Fire Company No. 2 as a junior fireman in June 1942 and remained a proud member throughout his life. He was also a member of the Long Branch Old Guard.
Nicholas found great joy in giving back to his community, especially through youth sports. Some of his most treasured years were spent managing the Vols Little League team and helping coach the Lions Babe Ruth team and the town's girls softball team alongside his two sons and daughter.
He and his beloved wife shared a passion for travel and proudly visited all 50 states, as well as Mexico and Canada, creating a lifetime of memories together.
Nicholas will be remembered for his strength, dedication, and unwavering love for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched, and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
His family finds peace in knowing he is now reunited with loved ones who have gone before him and rests in the presence of the Lord. May he be welcomed into eternal rest, and may perpetual light shine upon him.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, May 10, 2026 from 2-5 pm at the Damiano Funeral Home in Long Branch. Funeral Monday 10 am at the funeral home followed by a 11 am Mass at St. Michael's Church, West End, Long Branch. Entombment will be at Woodbine Mausoleum in Oceanport. The family invites you to leave a note of condolence by selecting the tribute/guestbook link above.
