Skidding in sideways laughing and enjoying every minute of life, Rudy has gone fishing one last time. Whether he was in Yakutat fishing for halibut, Puget Sound fishing for salmon, Cabo fishing for marlin, or San Diego fishing for blue fin or yellow tail tuna, fishing made Rudy happy. Hunting was a close second. Tromping through the trees for deer or elk with his son and friends, the “rat pack”, made Rudy happy.

Rudy was an extraordinary chef and entrepreneur, starting five restaurants including “Little Italy West” on Bainbridge Island, “Rudy’s Little Italy” and “Pizza Bella” in Normandy Park, “Viggiano’s” in Federal Way, and “Adesso” in Olympia. Rudy was recognized for his tasty dishes through numerous articles, Seattle’s Best Places, and Seattle’s Cheap Eats. With a background in French cuisine, Rudy’s Italian dishes were delectable. Through his restaurants, Rudy became a skilled negotiator and later used those skills as a real estate agent, always working for the best deal for his clients.

Rudy served in the Air National Guard, receiving recognition for his physical readiness and shooting ability, scoring 300 out of 300, the highest score in his unit. His commander called Rudy a gifted and well-rounded young man, who would go far in life.

Born to Louis Viggiano and Margaret Redmond, both deceased, Rudy grew up in Palos Verdes, California with his three sisters: Josie Bracken, Luann Viggiano, and Jeanne Keef. Luann, who took extraordinary care of Rudy in his final days, is his sole surviving sibling.

Rudy brought life to three children: Cynthia Pollmann, Susan Viggiano, and Joseph Viggiano and has four grandchildren. Rudy was immensely proud of his beloved children and grandchildren taking them on many fishing, camping, and skiing trips.

Rudy’s final years were spent with his life partner, Dana Skube, who cared for him to his last breath.

When you see a fish jump, you’ll know Rudy is near.