Sudden Loss Of Basking Ridge Dad, NJ Teacher Mourned By Community

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — A community is mourning the sudden death of beloved 45-year-old father, husband, and educator John Paul Viggiano of Basking Ridge.

Viggiano was loving called JP by his friends and Mr. V by his students at Essex Fells Elementary, where he was a health and physical education teacher for the past 15 years. He died on Friday, April 1, 2022.

Described as fun-loving and big-hearted it was not surprising that he started an annual kickball tournament in 2010. He also served as coach of the Whippany Park football team.

"JP was loved by all who knew him," reads his obituary. "He was always quick with a joke and ready with a helping hand."

While JP loved college football, comic books and movies, his first love was his family.

"He was involved in every part of his children’s lives and was the 'funcle' for his extended family," according to his obituary.

John Paul is predeceased by his parents Nunzio and Adelina (Ramundo) Viggiano. He is survived by his wife Jenniffer (Lees), daughter Adelina, son Adam, brother Dino, sister-in-law Colleen, niece Elizabeth, and nephew Michael.

A memorial gathering will be held on Friday, April 8 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Hancliffe Home for Funerals, 222 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover followed by a memorial Mass on Saturday, April 9 at 11:30 a.m. at Saint Rose of Lima Church, 312 Ridgedale Avenue in East Hanover.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to John Paul Viggiano's children's education fund, payable to "Paolo Ramundo FBO Adelina or Adam Viggiano" and mailed to Paolo Ramundo Esq., 1 Sussex Ave, Bronxville, NY 10708.

A GoFundMe fundraising site set up on behalf of Viggiano's family has already raised more than $130,000 since it was launched four days ago. To donate click here.

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