Antonio Viviani

Antonio “Pop” Viviani, 86, of Saugerties, died Sunday, December 6, 2020, at Vassar Brothers Medical Center.

Born on December 16, 1933 in Agerola, Italy, Antonio was a son of the late Cattello & Maria Assunta Casanova Viviani. Antonio was affectionately known by many simply as ‘Pop’. Pop emigrated from Italy to the United States in 1956 in pursuit of the American Dream. Antonio originally put down roots in Astoria, Queens until moving upstate in the early 1970’s where he began his most notable career as a restauranteur. Pop first opened The Hillside Tavern in Cottekill, New York before opening what became his pride and joy, The Cedar Tavern in Kingston, New York. He could often be found behind the bar at The Cedar Tavern, serving drinks and socializing with his patrons and dear friends; one of his favorite past times. As the patriarch, Pop shared many traditions with his family; from Sunday dinners, to making wine and sauce. He was happiest when surrounded by his family and took great comfort in their joy.

Pop will be missed immensely by all who knew and loved him.

Antonio is survived by his wife of 66 years, Yolanda Medaglia Viviani of Saugerties, four children, Ann Marie Viviani and her spouse, Andre of Kingston, Toni Viviani of Accord, Joann Mason and her spouse, Phillip of Stone Ridge and Maria Viviani of Port Ewen. A son in-law, Aaron Childers of Saugerties, a niece, Phyllis Hamor of Fort Meyers, Florida, and 11 grandchildren and 18 great grandchildren also survive.

In addition to his parents, Antonio was predeceased by a son, Catellino J. Viviani and three siblings, Filomena Buonocore, Guiseppe Viviani and Alessandro Viviani.

Antonio will be reposing at the Simpson-Hammerl Funeral Home, 411 Albany Ave on Friday, December 11, 2020 from 2-4 and 7-9 PM.

The funeral procession will form from the funeral home on Saturday at 9:00 AM.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:00 AM at St. Joseph Church.

Entombment in Wiltwyck Community Mausoleum will follow.

The family requests that memorial donations be made to Parkinson's Foundation, 200 SE 1st Street, Suite 800, Miami, FL 33131.

Simpson-Hammerl Funeral Home is honored to assist the family of Antonio with the arrangements.