Frank W. Viggiano

In Loving Memory: Frank Viggiano (1935-2024)
Frank Viggiano, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and pillar of his community, peacefully departed from this world on March 16, 2024, at the age of 88. He joins his beloved parents, Anthony ("Nero") and Catherine (Catie), brother Anthony, and his wife Kathy (both survived by daughter Tara), sister Anita, and husband Anthony Kozikowski (both survived by their son Anthony and daughter Alysse, her husband Justin Cummings and son Cooper) in eternal rest. His passing marks the end of a life filled with love, laughter, dedication, and profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him.
Born on Sept 7, 1935, Frank spent his earlier years growing up in downtown Jersey City, NJ, which helped shape his strong work ethic and unwavering commitment to creating and maintaining a strong sense of family. There he met many lifetime friends, including the late Anthony Nicodemo, Sr. and Bill Macchi, Sr. Frank was a proud alum of Holy Family HS, Union City where he was a scholarship baseball player. He earned his BA at Seton Hall University and his MA at Rutgers University.
Frank's journey took a significant turn when he met the love of his life, Angela, whom he married in 1960. Together, they embarked on a remarkable journey spanning over six decades, characterized by their unwavering devotion and mutual respect to each other - moving from Jersey City to North Bergen. Their bond was a testament to the enduring power of love and partnership, serving as an inspiration to all who knew them.
As a father, Frank was an example of strength, dedication, wisdom, and integrity - instilling his six children with these attributes along with a strong sense of purpose, understanding, and love. He took great pride in witnessing their successes and supported them through life's inevitable challenges. He is survived by his children, David and wife Lisa (Mullane), sons David and Sammy, Anthony, Deborah, Gregory, Douglas, and Robert and wife Dawn (Lawrence), sons Dominic, Vincent, and Andrew.
Frank's role as a grandfather brought him immeasurable joy and fulfillment. He cherished the precious moments spent with his five grandchildren, nieces, and nephew, imparting invaluable lessons, and creating cherished memories.
Frank's passion for knowledge and love of literature made him a natural fit for becoming an educator at North Bergen High School, in North Bergen, NJ. Over a 30-year teaching career teaching English literature in North Bergen he was able to impart his wisdom and love of learning to countless students who entered his classroom. His passion for teaching and firm belief in the importance of education drove him to undertake leadership roles as the president of the North Bergen teacher's union, and later President of the NJ AFT. He was the proud varsity baseball coach with his dear friend the late Ralph Fedele. Additionally for many years he ran the elementary school basketball program and was a volunteer baseball coach in the North Bergen Little League. Furthermore, during his summers when not teaching, he worked as a Laborer and was a very proud lifelong member of the Laborer's Local 325. In his spare time he found tremendous pleasure sharing his love of motorcycle riding with his son Anthony. He rode actively across the country for over 35 years.
Frank was deeply committed to his Catholic roots and his dedication to living those values by serving his community and helping the people who he encountered. He believed in the importance of living life through the values instilled in him by the Roman Catholic church. Angela and he always spoke proudly of their children's education and graduation from Catholic prep high schools Holy Angels' Academy, in Demarest, NJ and St. Peter's Prep in Jersey City, NJ. This life guiding tenant led to his role as founder and principal of the CCD program at Our Lady of Fatima, in North Bergen, NJ, as well as many other positions he volunteered for in the parish where Angela and he met many dear friends including the Rev. Monsignor Franklyn M. Casale, and the late Anthony and Grace Herenda, Thomas and Helen Dougherty and Joseph and Josephine Tighe. The principal position, though, allowed him to combine both his love for educating with his core foundational principles of life.
Frank's passing leaves a profound void in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. However, his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. Though he may no longer be with us in body, his presence will forever be felt in the warmth of the sun, the gentle breeze, and the love that surrounds us.
Frank will be dearly missed by his loving wife, Angela, his children, grandchildren, extended family, and friends. May he rest in eternal peace, knowing that his legacy of love and compassion will endure for generations to come.
In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation in Frank's name to St. Peter's Prep, 144 Grand Street, Jersey City, NJ 07302. Thank you.
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