Friends and family reflect on the death of Juan Anziani Jr. and the legacy he leaves behind.
Juan Anziani Jr., affectionately known as “Junito” to his loved ones, was a man whose presence touched countless lives in the Passaic community and beyond.
Standing at 6’1″ and remembered for his athletic prowess, Junito graduated from Passaic High School in 2011, where he served as captain of the varsity baseball team and also played basketball, wearing jersey number 23 for both teams.
More than just an athlete, Junito was the cornerstone of his family—a devoted partner, father, brother, and son who consistently placed the needs of others before his own.
His warm personality and generous spirit made him beloved not only within his immediate circle but also a cherished figure throughout his community.
Friends and coaches remember him as someone with “quiet confidence” and “exceptional talent.”
His former coach, Peter Diaz, described him as having
“an unmatched baseball IQ, the kind of understanding you don’t teach—it’s something you’re born with.”
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According to Diaz, Junito’s impact on the baseball program was transformative, inspiring others to stay local and believe in what they were building together.
Outpouring Of Support After The Death Of Juan Anziani Jr.
The sudden passing of Juan Anziani Jr. has left a profound void in the hearts of all who knew him.
The news of his death spread quickly through Passaic, with tributes pouring in from friends, family members, and former teammates who expressed their disbelief and heartbreak.
Professional boxer Glen Tapia was among those who publicly mourned Junito’s passing, writing that “Passaic lost a Real One” and emphasizing how Junito “ALWAYS supported me and showed me love through it all.”
Similarly, Jimmy Rosario, who considered Junito more like a brother, described the loss as deeply personal, stating that his family was
“taking this loss as if it were one of ours.”
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Former coach Peter Diaz shared emotional reflections, writing,
“I will miss Juan deeply. These pictures of him in uniform, in motion, and in joy, say so much more than words ever could. But if I had to put it all into just four simple ones: I love you, Juan.”
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The circumstances surrounding Junito’s passing have brought his community together in solidarity and support.
Family members have organized a fundraiser to cover funeral and memorial expenses, allowing Junito to receive “the farewell he so deeply deserves.“
Eduardo Cano, a close friend, shared a particularly poignant message: “I hope you’re at peace. I hope you’re right beside your beautiful mom, giving her the tightest hug,” suggesting that Junito has reunited with his mother, who had passed away previously.
As the Passaic community continues to process this tremendous loss, Junito’s legacy of kindness, generosity, and support for others lives on through the memories shared by those who knew and loved him.
The community has rallied to support his family during this difficult time, demonstrating the same kind of solidarity and care that Junito himself embodied throughout his life.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Juan played first base (1B) on the Passaic Varsity Baseball team.
- He weighed 240 lbs during his athletic career at Passaic High School.
- Juan was sometimes referred to as “kidd” by his aunt Florence Levister, who shared several emotional tributes to him.
