Richard William Riggs

A good friend of my parents and family. Laura and Jeff were my friends and family. We grew up with each other for a brief period of our lives and would love for them to know that they are in my thoughts. Hope we shall see each other again for good times. Love you and miss you.

My years of working for Bill, both in the law office of Willner, Bennett & Leonard and at the Circuit Court of Multnomah County were the highlight of my working years. He introduced me to my future husband, Paul Mackey, then officiated at our wedding in 1984. My son attributes his Army Career (warrant/officer helicopter pilot) to a letter of recommendation Bill wrote for Barry. The girl friends I made at the Willner, Bennett law firm are mostly still in my life and we will toast Bill at...

Bill was a colleague and a friend. Bill was on the Circuit Court when I became a lawyer; he always remembered my name, and gently taught me through my early years of practicing law. After I became a judge I knew I could always call on him if I wanted advice. He was also a friend. I remember dinners at his home when he was living in Mountain Park, with Bill being a great host (and excellent cook!). After we both retired from the bench we saw less of each other, and have not seen each...

RIP to a good friend and shipmate.

Bill was one of a handful of circuit court judges that "raised me" as a young lawyer. My husband and I had the good fortune to become friends with Bill and Diane. We enjoyed many days at Bill and Diane´s home, listening to jazz while floating in the pool. Bill was a great jurist but he had many other interests, opera, art, cooking, entertaining and dancing with Diane. He will be missed by us. Sending our love to you, Diane. Eve and Michael

I served as a legal secretary in the law firm of Wilner, Bennett, Riggs & Skarstad in the late 1970's, leaving the firm in 1976 to start a family. I remember Bill as a kind and compassionate person, representing his clients well. Later, he became Judge Riggs for Multnomah County and then was appointed to the Oregon Court of Appeals and State Supreme Court. He had quite a legal career!

Susan had the privilege of appearing before Bill when he was on the trial bench and she had a memorable trial. Later, they became colleagues on the Oregon Appellate courts. Bill was a delight to work with, both practical and smart, and always a calm and cheery presence. We will miss him, and we send our sincere condolences to his family.

Thanks for the good memories, especially in the "walking group ".

Clerking for Bill was one of the top highlights of my legal career. He will be sorely missed.