Jack James Vivona, 59, of Endicott, NY was ushered into the arms of the Lord on Sunday, October 28,2018 after an extended illness. Jack was born on September 11, 1959 in Endicott, to James and Mary Vivona. He is predeceased by his father, James; sister, Palma (Jerry) Vivona Kooch, of Ashburn, Virginia; brother, Peter (Paula) Vivona of Vestal, NY. He is survived by his benevolent and loving mother, Mary Vivona; sister, Josephine (Vincent) Vivona Valicenti; nieces, Jamie (Brock) Vivona Haddix, Meredith (David) Vivona-Sedlock and their son, Desmond; Mary (Bill) Kooch Apperson and their children, Jimmy and Sarah; Michele (Jeff) Kooch Cummings and their children, Joshua and Anna; nephew Vincent (Stephanie) Kooch and their daughter, Palma. In 1977, Jack graduated from Maine-Endwell High School. His greatest personal achievements included playing football, participating in several extracurricular activities, taking higher level learning courses, and earning the prestigious Eagle Scout Award. He went on to graduate from Cornell University with several undergraduate degrees as well as a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering. He was proud to be a member of the “Big Red” football team at Cornell while excelling in his studies. He attended the University of Pittsburgh Medical School and later received a nursing, advanced nursing and Physician’s Assistant degree from Binghamton University. He was diligently pursuing a degree as a Psychiatric Nursing Assistant when he became ill. Jack, never gave up. He loved learning, living,and being part of community life. Jack will best be remembered for his kindness, generosity, fortitude, and compassion for others. He quietly helped those less fortunate than he; donated his time and energy without ever asking for recognition. He cared for and about others, loved and cared for his family and ardently practiced the tenets of his faith. His positive attitude spilled over to his love for the New York Giants football team ever rooting, watching, and believing in their potential.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate Jack’s life with a Funeral Mass at 10:30 am on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at The Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis Street, Endwell, NY. Visiting hours will be from 9:30 am until Mass time at 10:30 am. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. Expressions of sympathy in Jack’s memory may be made to the charity of one’s choice. His mother and sister would like to recognize and thank those at Willow Point Nursing Home and Lourdes Hospital who cared for and treated him with the dignity and respect he so deserved. He will be missed.