William Howard (Bill) Riggs, age 85, passed away on July 6, 2020 at his home in Ellenton, Florida. Bill is survived by his wife, Linda (Beadling) Riggs; his daughters Terri Maginnis of Newcastle, California, Jani Steinbacher of Valrico, Florida and stepson Gregory Glunt of Monroeville, Pennsylvania; grandchildren Julie Maginnis, David Maginnis, Eric Maginnis, Kevin Maginnis, Rachel Steinbacher, and Samantha Barnes. He is preceded in death by his daughter Beth Hazuka.
Bill was born on June 8, 1935 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to parents David Alfred Riggs and Gladys Virginia McNutt. He graduated from Wilkinsburg High School in 1954 and attended Pennsylvania Military College (now Widener University) from 1954 to 1956. After college, Bill started as an electrical equipment salesman and eventually began his own business, Riggs Electrical Sales, which he ran until his retirement in 1997.
In 1966, Bill moved his family to Murrysville where his daughters all attended school through their senior years at Franklin Regional. The family was actively involved at the Murrysville Swim Club where Bill was a board member and also ‘Mr. Starter’ for the summer league team. He enjoyed officiating swim meets and continued to do so at the University of Pittsburgh for several more years. Bill was a member of the Crowfoot Rod and Gun Club and was an avid gun collector and military history enthusiast. He was an active member of the Rotary for over 35 years. Bill and Linda both enjoyed boating and spent many summer weekends in Pittsburgh on the rivers as members of the Oakmont Yacht Club.
Upon retirement, Bill and Linda headed south first to Beaufort, North Carolina and then eventually to Lakewood Ranch, Florida. In Florida, Bill enjoyed the warmer weather with daily trips to the dog park. While growing up in Pittsburgh, Bill attended a Methodist church. He continued practicing his faith as a member of the Parrish United Methodist Church in Parrish, Florida. Through his retirement years, Bill never forgot his city of birth. He missed his friends and the Pittsburgh spirit and looked forward to the NFL season; he was a true Steelers fan through the good years as well as the ‘rebuilding years’.
Bill will be remembered for his quick wit, friendly demeanor and willingness to lend a helping hand to the Rotary, Airedale Terrier Club of Florida, Sunshine Airedale Rescue of Florida and most importantly to his family and friends.
The family will be holding a Celebration of Life service on a future date. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Tidewell Hospice 5955 Rand Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34238 or Parrish United Methodist Church 12180 US-301. Parrish, FL 34219.
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