Farewell FRANK V, officer, brother, friend, FISHERMAN….

[FASTEDDIE29]

On friday morning I got some very bad news that a great friend of mine, Frank Viggiano, was in the tragic accident on Staten Island. He was pronounced dead on the scene and I cannot begin to explain the feelings that are going through my head right now. Reality hasn't quite set in yet but I know it will. I am at a loss for words these days and really don't know to react. I'm a loud, life of the party kind of guy most of the time but right now I just feel confused.

Frank was not an NJF member but he and his brother Mike have been big parts of my life for the last 15 years or so. We all enjoyed the outdoors, fishing and camping together. I turned Frank and Mike on to the world class fishery upstate NY and they haven't turned back since. Many, many good times were had by myself and this band of brothers. These Viggiano brothers were at my wedding. Frank was at my bachelor party and we just can't talk about what went down that night right now, LOL. What a night it was! I don't think anyone slept until we all got home sometime Sunday afternoon. GOOD TIMES!!!

Frank became an officer in Linden 5 years ago and his reputation is spotless. You will not find a blemish in this kids short life. He was well respected in town by all. Always smiling, always helpful, never starting problems or conflict. He helped people in many ways no matter what the situation. He purchased the home he grew up in from his parents shortly after becoming a Linden police officer. When he wanted something, he worked for it and got what he wanted. Working 4 days on with 3 days off he took every side job Linden PD offered him, never turning down work. This young man may be the most driven person I have ever met.

He traveled to the Great Lakes with his brother often. At the young age of 28 this man has been to Mardi Gras, Texas, Florida, Maine, NY, Rhode Island, Maryland and places most people his age don't experience in a lifetime. I have nothing but respect for my friend. Although we haven't spent much time together in recent years because of conflicting schedules it doesn't matter because once where together its like we were never separated. His smile can light up a room. He would give anyone the shirt off his back, even if he didn't know you. I really don't know what to say at this time.

Please don't speculate. Please have respect for my friend and his family. Frank was a mans man. He lived life to the fullest but it was just cut way to short. I miss his tall goofy ass so much!!!

FAIR WINDS and CALM SEAS my friend.

R.I.P. Officer Frank Viggiano