William Riggs

William Charles Riggs, known to his family and friends as Bill, passed peacefully into the arms of Jesus on the afternoon of December 31st. Born on June 10, 1950, in Alma Michigan to Neal and Barbara Riggs, Bill eventually moved to Lake Odessa. Lake Odessa is the place he ultimately called home, where he found the love of his life, my mother, Donna, raised three children, served on various community boards, including as the Village President, and made a life any man would be envious.

Life would take him away from the small town he called home for a while as he served proudly in the U.S. Navy from 1969-1975; with two of those years based in Naples, Italy. Upon his discharge from the Navy, he returned to Lake Odessa and working at General Motors where he remained employed until his retirement in 1998.

Despite his naval career and commitment to his job and community, Bill’s greatest achievement was his family. He and his wife, Donna (Williams), and been married for over 54 years, only recently celebrating their anniversary on December 28th. While being married for over 50 years, their relationship dated back to meeting when they were children. Their commitment to each other was visible to anyone who was fortunate enough to know them. Bill and Donna have 3 children, Sarah (Gregg) Palmbos, Matthew, and Joshua and 2 grandchildren, Grace & Isabella Palmbos. Bill is also survived by two brothers, Earl & Douglas Riggs, and one sister, Mary O’Neil.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, January 7th, 2026 at Koops Funeral Chapel from 11am until 12noon at Koops Funeral Chapel in Lake Odessa, funeral services will begin at 12 noon with Military Honors.