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Robert Rigamonti Obituary
Rigamonti
Born on February 6, 1950 in San Francisco, died in Los Angeles on April 25, 2013. He was the only child of Blanche and Gino. Robert was an artist, actor, Buddhist, yoga teacher/therapist, writer, motorcyclist, carpenter, adventurer, and magnificent host.
He began San Francisco State University in 1968, acted in local theatre, and joined the long running Equity production of One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest. With the intention of broadening his acting career, Robert moved to Manhattan, but took a respite to become a member of the first class of male stewards hired by Pan American World Airways. After his departure from Pan Am, he returned to acting, and lived in Manhattan Plaza for 14 years. He made his Broadway debut as Stage Manager and actor in a revival of Filumena at the St. James Theatre. The play was directed by Lawrence Olivier when original director, Franco Zeffirelli, withdrew. Robert directed and acted in television, theater, film and was a successful commercial actor.
At 38, Robert relocated to Los Angeles and in 1989 he was sought for the job of Theater Manager for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Robert flourished in this role for many years and was well loved by his staff. He remained in this post until his death.
Robert is survived by an army of friends, by his beloved dogs Piccina and Bella, his partner and friend Timothy Smith, his cousins Lisa Schofield and Karen, Lauren and Sara Guidotti, and family in Pennsylvania and Italy.
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to any of the following charities in Robert's memory: San Francisco Zen Center/ Green Gulch, SPCA LA (Los Angeles), Lymphoma Leukemia Society of America or the Actor's Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Rigamonti
Paul DeMeritt
September 12, 2025
I am so touched to learn of Robert´s passing in 2013. When I was a lost and uncertain freshman at San Francisco State University in 1970, Robert (then known as Bob) was a senior and became my mentor - and one of the kindest, gentlest, and most encouraging mentors of my entire life! As the Theatre Department was readying for auditions for "Gypsy," Bob asked what I was using for an audition song. My reply was "I don´t sing, dance or do musicals" to which Bob replied "So what song are your going to sing?" From that point on, Bob prepared me, coached me and sat smiling in the front row as I auditioned...and was cast in my first - but certainly not my last musical! Thanks to Bob - and so many others at SFSU - I went on to sing, dance, act, direct and teach theatre for over 50 years. An ancient prayer of the early church says "May God grant you rest and repose in His kingdom, where there is no more sickness, sorrowing or sighing, where God Himself wipes away every tear, and where the voice of those who keep festival is never ceasing" - or as I like to put it, "Where the party never ends!" Many thanks, blessings and much love - and see you at the party, Robert! Paul DeMeritt
Beatriz Misenta
April 30, 2025
Robert, we shared several years at the School of the Epiphany when we were kids. You were my first crush when I was 10 years old! Even as a little boy you were kind and gentlemanly and left a lasting impression. I was glad that we were able to reconnect and share memories many years later. Rest in peace.
FELANO
May 27, 2021
May God bless you and your family. Fond memories of times past. Classmate of yours in jr. high and high school.
Yvonne Mayo
June 13, 2013
Robert was one of the first people I met when I moved onto the block. A great and warm neighbor. I really miss seeing him on his bicycle with his dogs. So sorry for the loss to his family and friends.
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May 28, 2013
I am so sorry to hear of Bob's passing. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. Love, Nancy Gonzalez
FELANO BRIONES
May 27, 2013
AT LUTHER BURBANK JR. HIGH HE WAS A FUNNY GUY. AT BALBOA HS, HE WAS FULL OF TALENT, VOTED THE FRIENDLIEST HS SENIOR, AND LED US SENIORS IN CHEERS OF SCHOOL SPIRIT. I WILL SEEK OUT VIDEOS OF YOUR WORK TO ENJOY. MISSED BY YOUR CLASSMATE OF BOTH SCHOOLS. GONE TOO SOON BOB.
Mimi Cozzzens
May 26, 2013
Robert and I toured in a production of Mornings At Seven though Florida and in Atlanta Georgia in the early 80's. And I can attest to the fact he was a magnificent host here in LA. I am so sorry you have left us at such an early age. My condolences to your family and friends.
May 23, 2013
Robert you will be missed by so many. I was never able to meet you, but I heard many wonderful stories. I hope you're in a better place. May you rest in peace. xo
May 22, 2013
I met Rig in New York in the 70's through our mutual love, Derek Wolshonak. We reunited again when we both moved to LA. What a kind, wickedly funny, grounded, curious, capable, talented, and wonderful person he was.
May 21, 2013
Bob was one of the first students I met at Balboa High. He was one of the warmest, funniest and most memorable. Life will miss him.
John Connelly
May 21, 2013
You will be missed by all of your Balboa classmates
Thomas (Tom) Tait
May 21, 2013
Bob and I were cast in the wonderful Moliere comedy Tartuffe at Balboa High School. Bob played the title role and I was Mon. Orgon. The script was updated by director Alfred Lobb, music composed by Calvin Simmons and conducted by Sid Walker, all of whom liked and respected Bob's talent and personality. My wife and I had the enormous pleasure to visit with Bob at his lovely home two years ago. It was a great reunion for me. I will miss you Rig -- Rest in Peace, Roberto.
Nancy (Fassio) Roberts
May 21, 2013
He was a high school classmate; I knew him as Bob. He was always so energetic and positive about life. He truly followed his dreams, fully experienced this world, and touched so many by his warmth and openness. He's another good human being, gone too soon. Rest easy and soar high...
paulette terry
May 21, 2013
My old high school mate may God hold you in his arms comfort your family and freinds. Paulette Terry ..1968
Barbara Larsen-Schardt
May 21, 2013
Thoughts and prayers to Bob's family - such a wonderful talent and incredible human being.
May 20, 2013
Rest in peace my friend..
Stella Wong (Huey)
May 20, 2013
You will be missed Bob!! My thought go out to your family.
Lorraine Chiantelli-Hughes
May 20, 2013
My Deepest Sympathy to Roberts family and many friends.
I had not seen "Bob" since high school and was so happy to see his beautiful smiling face on Facebook. From all the amazing words I have read about him on his FB page I can see he has touched so many people, will be greatly missed and made this world a better place. Ciao Bello
May 20, 2013
To Roberto, my dear, sweet, loving, generous, and thorny companion. Bella and I are heartbroken. 'Cruella' is just hungry. I miss you so much. To the marvelous honeycomb in your heart. Thanks for all the beauty and astonishment. Enjoy your peace and rest, my Love. TMateo
Janet Mikulin Giddings
May 19, 2013
My deepest and heartfelt compassion to all those who love Robert. I went to grammar school with him at Epiphany and we were pals. He was funny, sweet, kind, and smart as a kid and last we met he was the same. I kept meaning to contact him; a harsh lesson.
Dwayne Ralston
May 19, 2013
My dearest sweet friend as your spirit floats free,my heart goes out to the lives you have touched...We love you Robert and miss you.......
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