NY kayak murder case: Celebrating the life of Vincent Viafore
Before his death while kayaking along New York's Hudson Valley in April 2015, friends and family describe Vincent "Vinny" Viafore as the life of the party.
By all accounts, "Vinny" was a fun-loving and outgoing kind of guy. His friends and family say he lived to make sure everyone around him felt at ease, and was having a good time.
Remembering Vinny
Pictured at his 1986 high school graduation, Viafore would eventually start a career as a project manager for the State of New York.
Remembering Vinny
Viafore was married and divorced twice. Pictured here with his ex-wife, Suzanne, Vincent was described as a loving and giving person. Though their marriage came to an end, they remained friends until his death.
Life of the Party
Besides being known for his BBQ ribs, Viafore was also known for his dance moves.
"He just lit up a room, you know," friend Amanda Hoysradt told "48 Hours." "He was funny. He had these beautiful blue eyes, a really piercing smile. He was a good guy."
Life of the Party
Viafore, right, is seen dancing with the father of the bride at a wedding. He also enjoyed karaoke, though his mother, Mary Ann, recalled, fondly, that he wasn't very good at singing.
"Vinny Shots"
One of Viafore's nicknames, "Vinny Shots," finds its origin in his preference for the type of drink. His good friend, Amanda Hoysradt, told "48 Hours" that they met when he offered her one.
Vincent Viafore
Viafore was especially fond of anything involving the water -- one of the perks of living in New York's Hudson Valley.
Viafore lost his life on April 19, 2015, during a kayaking trip on the Hudson River with with his fiancée, Angelika Graswald. She was later charged in his murder.
A Celebration of Life
Viafore's death on April 19, 2015, left many mourning, but his loved ones also chose to celebrate his life.
Remembering Vinny
A message from Viafore's former wife, Suzanne, was one of many that were released into the Hudson River in his memory.
"Vinny Shots"
These "Vinny Shots" bracelets were made to commemorate Viafore's life and energetic spirit.
Remembering Vinny
At one memorial gathering, Viafore's loved ones wrote heartfelt messages on paper boats, before releasing them into the Hudson.
Remembering Vinny
Paper boats carrying messages from those who love Vincent Viafore were released into the Hudson River in his memory.