Aurelio "Al" Sarracino, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and proud Navy veteran, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, May 4, 2025 at the remarkable age of 102.

Aurelio's life was one of quiet strength, humble service, and deep devotion. His legacy of family, integrity, and patriotism lives on through his loved ones and all who were fortunate to know him.

Born at home in Moonachie, New Jersey, Aurelio was the second of four sons of Italian immigrants Antonio and Germana Sarracino. He was raised in a close-knit family and graduated from East Rutherford High School. Shortly afterward, he enlisted in the United States Navy during World War II and trained as a salvage diver at Pier 88 in New York—an elite and physically demanding specialty.

He served aboard the newly commissioned USS Piedmont, supporting critical missions in the Pacific. After his honorable discharge in 1946, Aurelio was recalled to duty during the Korean War, serving aboard the USS Cascade. He spoke often and proudly of his experiences as a Navy salvage diver, sharing stories of the challenges and camaraderie that defined his service.

In September 1947, Aurelio married Marie Ret, and together they built a beautiful life centered on faith, family, and community. They settled in Wood-Ridge, where they built their forever home and raised seven children. Their marriage, which lasted until Marie's passing in 2020, spanned over 73 loving years.

Aurelio worked for decades as a union plumber and was a proud member of Local 14. He was well known among his peers for his strong work ethic and skill. Beyond his profession, he was a respected and active member of the community. He served with the Wood-Ridge Marshals and was a longtime member of the Holy Name Society at Assumption Church. In retirement, he remained dedicated to service, volunteering regularly at both the church and its school.

Aurelio and Marie shared a love of travel. They attended numerous Navy ship and salvage diver reunions, which took them to nearly every state in the country. They also traveled internationally to visit family in Italy, Thailand, and Canada, and enjoyed cruises and getaways to Atlantic City.

Aurelio is survived by five of his children: Irene McCall and her husband Craig, Stephen Sarracino and his wife Joanne, Ellen Thomson and her husband John, Geralyn Korin and her husband John, and Thomas Sarracino and his wife Lisa. He leaves behind ten grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom brought him immense pride and joy.

He was predeceased by his beloved wife Marie, sons Ronald and Paul, and his three brothers—Michael, Louis, and Albert.

A Memorial visitation will be held at Costa Memorial Home Boulevard and Central Avenue in Hasbrouck Heights on Monday, June 23rd from 4 - 8 PM. A Mass will be offered at the Church of the Assumption of Our Blessed Lady in Wood-Ridge on Tuesday, June 24th at 10:30 AM. Inurnment following at Calvary Cemetery, Paterson. Memorial contributions to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN. 38105 would be appreciated.