Robert S. Riggalls

Deacon Robert S. Riggalls, 78, passed away unexpectedly with his wife Mary Lou by his side on Friday, September 2, 2016. Bob was born in Utica, February 11, 1938, a son of the late Homer and Columbia Papa Riggalls, and attended local schools. Robert was in the Army, 44th Battalion from 1959 to 1962. On February 11, 1961, at Mt. Carmel Church, Bob was married to Mary Lou Soldano, a devoted and steadfast union for over 55 years. In 1991, Robert was ordained to the Diaconate, a calling for which he was well suited. His main church affiliation was St. Mary of Mt. Carmel, where he was Deacon until 2007. He is survived by his wife, Mary Lou of Waterville; a daughter and son-in-law, Cyndi Miller and Timothy Breer of VT; a son and daughter-in-law, Christian and Aileen Riggalls of Rochester; three granddaughters, Tiffany and Bill Everett, and Kathryn and Rachel Hardin; and one great grandson, Dylan. He was predeceased by his son, Robert Riggalls Jr.; brother, Michael Riggalls; and Julie Waters, who was like a daughter to him. Deacon Bob's Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, September 7, 2016 at St. Mary of Mt. Carmel/Blessed Sacrament Parish. There are no calling hours but the family will receive visitors at the conclusion of mass. Arrangements are with The Matt Funeral Home, Utica.

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