Aaron M Riggle

Born July 1, 1988, Aaron’s life was marked from the very beginning by perseverance and quiet strength. Born 10 weeks early at just 2 lbs. 3 oz., he spent months at the Omaha UNMC NICU before coming home—an oxygen hose trailing behind him for a year—already showing the steady determination that would shape the man so many came to love and cherish.

Aaron attended Carriage Hill Elementary in Papillion, Papillion Middle School, and went on to be a member of the first class at Papillion South High School, graduating in 2007. He was part of the band drum line, and his love of music and showmanship shone through in performances, including halftime at the California Holiday Bowl—moments that reflected both his dedication and his understated joy in being part of something bigger than himself.

In 2009, Aaron entered the United States Air Force, completing basic training at Lackland AFB, Texas. Most memorable was his need for double-rations to maintain his “muscular 108 lb. physique”. He was assigned to Minot AFB, North Dakota, serving in Vehicle Operations, and completed a six-month deployment to Qatar in the Middle East. Following his four-year commitment, he returned home and pursued classes at ITT and Metro, studying HVAC. He worked at Baxter Auto and later at B-Street Auto detailing cars—work he approached with the same hard-working, careful spirit that defined him, never seeking attention, simply doing things well.

Aaron was a lifelong bachelor, and yet his life was deeply rooted in family. A devoted son and a good brother, he had three siblings and was an uncle to 17 nieces and nephews, and a great-uncle to seven great-nieces and great-nephews. He showed up—reliably, gently—for family events, offering presence more than performance, and brightening gatherings with a whimsical smile that made those around him feel seen and valued.

Aaron’s interests reflected both curiosity and a quiet sense of adventure. He loved music—especially drums—and dabbled with guitar. He was fascinated by the night sky and used his telescope to study the stars, even driving to pitch-black farmland in October 2024 to view the comet C/2023 A3-ATLAS. He was an avid LEGO builder, a golfer, and a pickleball player. He enjoyed role-playing games and his PS3 video games. In ways both small and lasting, Aaron also made a difference through simple generosity such as attending family functions bringing gifts for his nieces and nephews. Such as buying his nephew Joey his first radio-controlled car, a gift that sparked Joey’s passion for robotics.

Aaron was kind-hearted and caring, with a gentle manner that never demanded the spotlight. He dearly loved “his dog” Coco (really Zach’s dog), and he loved his family with a steadiness that made him a cherished presence in their lives. His gentle spirit will be missed.

Preceded in death by his grandparents, Benjamin and Catherine Riggle of Valdosta, GA, and John and Pearl Gagnon of Montgomery, AL.

Survived by his parents, Bill and Bobbie Riggle; his siblings, Cathy and Doug Earnest, Michael and Francis Riggle, and Anna and Josh Pritchard, all of Omaha, NE.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to those who walked closely with Aaron: Don and Robin Perrero, his Godparents; Doug Earnest, his Catholic Confirmation Sponsor; and Zach Smith, Aaron’s best friend, military buddy, and housemate—traveling companions who shared movie outings and trips, and whose friendship meant so much.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Kahler Dolce Mortuary, 441 N. Washington Street, Papillion, NE 68046. A Vigil Service will follow at 7:00 p.m.

The Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Columbkille Church, 200 E. Sixth Street, Papillion, NE 68046. A Committal Service with military honors will follow at 12:30 p.m. at Omaha National Cemetery, 14250 Schram Road, Omaha, NE 68138.

If you are struggling with mental health or struggling in silence, realize you are not alone. You are loved and there is help even in the darkest moments. Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” If you see someone you think is struggling, reach out, as they can put up great barriers and screens. The signs are there once you can look “behind the curtain.” Mental health struggles and suicide has become an epidemic that needs our full attention.