Robert M. Riggie, 65

Robert M. Riggie, 65, of DeLancey, passed away at home on Monday, Sept. 27, 2021.

He was born in Punxsutawney on Oct. 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 Bachelor 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, California.

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 10 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, Florida, and his three brothers, Charles M. Riggie (Mary Ann) of Punxsutawney, James V. Riggie (Cathy) of DuBois, and William R. Riggie (Barbara) of Punxsutawney, along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and their families. He was also godfather to Devan Riggie and 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.

A celebration of life to honor Robert M. Riggie will be held on Saturday, Oct. 30, 2021, at Shumaker Funeral Home, Inc., Punxsutawney. Friends will be received from noon until the time of service at 3 p.m., officiated by Pastor Doug Wolfe. Military honors will be accorded by the Jefferson County Veterans Honor Guard.

Online condolences may be shared at www. shumakerfh.com.