Dennis Eugene Riggle Jr.

Born on March 13, 1963 in Hawaii, Dennis was the cherished son of Carol-Lyn Reed and Dennis Riggle, Sr. Growing up in a military family, Dennis moved several times during his childhood, living in Hawaii until he was five years old, before the family relocated to Overland Park, Kansas. After spending a year on his great-grandparents’ farm, they finally settled in Rogers, Arkansas, where Dennis would grow to become a remarkable man, cultivating a passion for learning that would guide him throughout his life.

Throughout his youth, Dennis was a gifted athlete, earning the affectionate nickname “Rubber Band Man” while playing in the Babe Ruth League. His tall, lean frame and long arms allowed him to stretch and catch baseballs with an ease that left an impression on teammates and opponents alike. He graduated from Rogers Heritage High School and continued his education at the University of Arkansas from 1981 to 1984, studying electrical engineering—a field that would shape his professional life, laying the foundation for a successful career in the logistics industry. He rose to the position of Director of West Coast Domestic Operations at XPO Global Logistics. He previously served as Vice President of Business Development at ICAT Logistics and as Station Manager at BTX. Known for his ability to transform workplaces into communities, Dennis was more than just a colleague; he was a mentor and friend who inspired those around him.

In his personal life, Dennis was a devoted husband and father. Dennis married the love of his life, Kathleen (Anne Valantiejus) December 14, 1991 in El Segundo CA. Together, they built a home filled with faith, laughter and love, blessed by three wonderful children: John, Megan, and Matthew. Lauren Keller, his loving daughter joined our family shortly after.

Dennis took immense pride in being a father, dedicating his time to his faith and giving back to his community. He spent years coaching youth baseball, football and basketball, sharing his love of sports with his children, and instilling in them the values of teamwork and perseverance. He was a semi-pro baseball player for St. Louis Cardinals in his younger days, and his enthusiasm for sports continued throughout his life as a devoted fan of both college and professional football, baseball and basketball. Dennis found joy not only in watching games but also in the camaraderie shared with family and friends during these moments. A natural handyman, Dennis was capable of using almost any tool and loved teaching his kids how to tackle various projects around the house.

Dennis was a proud member of the Cherokee tribe, a connection that enriched his life and deepened his appreciation for family, tradition, and community. He was a semi-formal man, embodying a blend of professionalism and approachability that made him a beloved figure among friends and colleagues.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife of over three decades, Kathleen; his three children, Matthew, Megan, and Lauren of Redondo Beach, CA; and his siblings: Barbara Leggitt (Lon) and Kathy Riggle of Fayetteville, AR; Bobby Riggle (Cecilia) of Rogers, AR; and Carol Oldridge (Bill) of Little Rock, AR. He was preceded in death by his son, John Riggle, his mother Carol-Lyn Reed; and his father, Dennis E. Riggle, Sr.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him, reminding us all of the impact one person can have on the world.

Please join us for Dennis’ Celebration of Life. The wake will be held at Lighthouse Memorials & Receptions, White & Day Center, 901 Torrance Blvd., Redondo Beach CA on December 20, 2024 from 5-8PM. The funeral will be held at American Martyrs Church, 1431 Deegan Place, Manhattan Beach, CA on December 21, 2024 at 10AM followed by a Reception in O'Donnell Hall until 1PM. For those who cannot physically attend, the service will be live streamed on the American Martyrs Church website, available to view for 3 months. Dennis will be buried at 1:30 PM at Holy Cross Cemetery 5835 West Slauson Ave., Culver City, where he will join his son John.

For those who wish to contribute to his legacy, and in lieu of flowers, donations can be made his In Loving Memory of Dennis Riggle GoFundMe page below.

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