For those of you who don't know, Victor Papagno was a NPC expediter backstage on national NPC events, including the NPC USA and NPC Nationals. If you competed in these events, you would of seen him, usually sitting in the enterance of the pump up room at the NPC USA. I have known Vinny for a long time, and was truly sad to hear he passed away yesterday. From many stories, to good times, to being there and always helping me and being respectful backstage, he will be missed. RIP Vinny
From Sheila Bleck - My Heart is broken. As I know many others will be greatly affected by this. My best friend of 14 years Vinny Papagno died last night. This man was apart of many things and always went above and beyond to give and to help just about anyone. We met in Miami 11/14/2003. We bonded and that bond grew over our years. From romance, to my protector, to being each others diary, to becoming the greatest gift, best friends. Our bond was so strong, we would say it was better then gold, because you could not ever put a price on it. ( a hidden treasure) ..... I will no longer be woken up to his text messages, or him singing me his ~Sheila~ song, or playing his guitar and playing `name this tune`. We will not hit weights together, box together, tell each other secrets, or beef each other up. But i am left with everything and all he ever gave me.
Thank you Vinny for ALWAYS being there. Thank you for telling me you were always proud of me, and that i made you proud, and telling me i was your best friend and that you loved me. Thank you for being so good, loyal, helping, and giving so much to everyone around you be it your job, your family , your dedication to the NPC/IFBB and athletes. You loved to be the GO TO GUY! you will always be greatly remembered by thousands.
My heart goes out to his parents, his brother and sister. His beautiful family and all his friends many of you i know... Im not saying goodbye Vinny, because thats not how you and I work. I see you later okay.. No more pain, no more worries, your free . I always love you, awe you know that"
From Dave Palumbo - When you see a guy like Vinny pass at such a young age (in the prime of his life), it makes you take inventory of your own life. All of a sudden all the aches and pains and slings and arrows of outrageous fortune don't seem quite that bad. Enjoy every day to it's fullest and always live your passions! I'll miss you Vinny.... I know you're running the show up there in heaven now!
