Robert Michael Riggie

Robert M. Riggie, 65, of De Lancey, passed away at home on Monday, September 27, 2021.   He was born in Punxsutawney on October 18, 1955, a son of Robert W. Riggie and Maxine M. (Fike) Riggie.

Bob was a 1973 graduate of Punxsutawney Area High School and a 2005 graduate of Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) obtaining his Bachelors of Arts Cum Laude degree in Geography.

He briefly served in the U.S. Navy as a Sonar Technician, Third Class and in 1976 was awarded the Navy Commendation Medal for his life-saving efforts in preventing the drowning of a young man in San Diego, CA.

Bob was a retired military veteran with career service in the U.S. Army,  2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, (also known as the Dagger Brigade), attaining the rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC). He was stationed for many years in Schweinfurt, Germany.  During the Gulf War conflict,  Operation Desert Storm, Bob saw active duty in the Middle East as master gunner for the Bradley Fighting Vehicle.  During his years of service, Bobby received many Commendation Medals and Ribbons. 

Bob also worked for Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) for more than ten years after his military career and earning his degree at IUP.

Bobby enjoyed spending time with his family and attended most of the annual Fike Family reunions. He was the hit of the party, bringing a freezer full of frozen treats knowing how much his family members loved ice cream.  Bob also enjoyed trying his luck with the Pennsylvania State Lottery and local casinos, whether alone or with family and friends, and was very generous with his winnings, supporting many charities during his lifetime.  

Bobby is survived by his only Sister, Christine Coene (John), of The Villages, FL and his three Brothers:  Charles M. Riggie (Mary Ann) of Punxsutawney, James V. Riggie (Cathy) of Dubois, William R. Riggie (Barbara) of Punxsutawney, along with many nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles, cousins and their families. He was also Godfather to Devan Riggie & Cathy Bargerstock Delia.  In addition, he is survived by Natascha Kruusi (Paul) of California, whom he cared for as a daughter.  Bobby was predeceased by his Mother, Maxine in 1975 and Father, Robert in 2001.

Arrangements are entrusted to Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney, with interment to be determined at a later date.

A Celebration of Life to honor Robert M. Riggie is being planned and will be held at a later date.

Memorial donations may be made in Bob’s name to the:

Foundation for IUP – Army ROTC Fund

Sutton Hall

Room 452

1011 South Drive

Indiana, PA  15705

Online condolences may be shared at www.shumakerfh.com

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