George B. Rigby
George B. Rigby, 89, of Stowe died the morning of July 29, 2019. He was born in Pawtucket, RI, February 20, 1930, the youngest child of Robert and Edith (Clare) Rigby. He graduated from East High School in 1948 and regularly attended class reunions there.
George served on active duty in the U.S. Navy from July 1952 to July 1954 and saw the world from Europe to Africa, the Middle East and the Far East.
He was in one of the earliest classes (1955-1957) at the Culinary Institute of America in New Haven, CT with his lifelong friend, Jon “Zack” Zachadnyk of On the Rocks in “Monkey” Center, VT. He then began 37 and three-quarters years (but who’s counting?) as chef-owner and then-innkeeper when the motel was built in 1977. The family remembers well and with appreciation the many co-workers and colleagues who were part of the Hob Knob team.
George is survived by his wife of almost 55 years (who’s counting?) Deborah Rigby of Stowe; daughter, Catherine (Kasha) Rigby of Salt Lake City and sister, Doreen Bell of Florida. His son, Stephen Rigby, died in 2017.
George survived his three older brothers, Sidney, Robert and Walter, who all served in World War II. Sidney died in the Battle of the Philippine Sea.
He is also survived and missed by his nephews, David and Michael and their mother, Barbara Rigby all of Florida. He was also “Uncle George” to many Casterlines: Aaron and Adam LaRow of Vermont and Angelina Ciotti and their mother, Susan Ciotti of Maine. He was especially close to and admired by super-chef, Maggie (Margarette) Casterline of Boston, who cooked, cared for and supported him in his final days.
George will be remembered by all the extended family who traveled many miles to enjoy Thanksgiving feasts at the Hob Knob, the record number being 38 for family dinner. He was grateful for the support, friendship and technical knowledge of his more-than-a-brother-in-law, Bill Casterline of Stowe.
George will be missed at the Saturday morning meeting in Moscow of the “Joint Chiefs” and the Tuesday morning breakfast club.
He will be remembered for his extraordinary whistling and ability to come up with a song on any topic. We won’t mention his renditions of “Danny Boy.” And of course, pies of all descriptions!
A memorial gathering will happen later when Kasha can return from Cox’s Bazaar, Bangladesh, where she is working for the World Food Program, of which her father was very proud.
The family extends special gratitude to almost-daughter, Dale Porter, who was at their side through this journey; and thanks to Dr. Quinn and the staff at Copley Hospital, Lamoille Home Health & Hospice, and The Manor for their very professional and kind care.
Faith Funeral Home is assisting with arrangements; online condolences may be made by visiting faithfh.net. In lieu of flowers, please perform an act of kindness. In lieu of flowers, please perform an act of kindness.
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