Helen Louise Riggenbach

Helen Louise Riggenbach, 97, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loved ones, on Sunday, November 9, 2025.
Born at home on the family farm on February 10, 1928, she was the fourth of seven children of Thomas U. and Helen C. (Michels) Brumenschenkel. A lifelong resident of the Mansfield area, Helen graduated from Madison High School and went on to earn her bachelor's degree in education from Ashland College.
On August 1, 1948, Helen married the love of her life, Richard C. Riggenbach. Together they shared 62 wonderful years of marriage until his passing in 2010. Now, they are reunited once more in Heaven.
After high school, Helen worked as a bookkeeper at Farmer's Bank and O'Neil's Department Store, then as the Mother of 3 boys. After achieving her degree in 1965, she began her teaching career with the Madison School System, where she later specialized as a reading recovery teacher until her retirement in 1995.
Helen had a keen eye for beauty and a creative spirit. She loved reading, decorating her home with fine dishes, art, and fabrics, trying new recipes, and baking delicious treats, and always insisting on gathering at her house to share. A passionate traveler, she delighted in visiting destinations around the world - especially memorable trips to Singapore and Spain - as well as visiting family across the United States.
She was a past member of the Springmill Garden Club, Delta Kappa Gamma, Leiderkranz, the Retired Teachers Association, and the U.S. Power Squadron. A woman of deep faith, Helen was a devoted member of the First Congregational Church in Mansfield for more than 50 years.
Above all, Helen cherished her family. Whether it was a simple dinner at home or a weekend of boating on Lake Erie, she was happiest when surrounded by those she loved most.
She is survived by her three sons David (Lynn) Riggenbach, Donald Riggenbach (Tish Cabrera), and Douglas (Karen) Riggenbach, six grandchildren Dr. Michael (Jennifer) Riggenbach, Kaitlyn Riggenbach, Alan (Amy) Riggenbach, Eric Riggenbach, Nathan (Miranda) Riggenbach, and Sean (Grace) Riggenbach, ten great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces and nephews.
In addition to her husband, Helen is preceded in death by her parents, and siblings John Brumenschenkel, Paul Brumenschenkel, Eldon Brumenschenkel, Thomas Brumenschenkel, Geraldine Dunkle, and Marilyn Kemp.
The Riggenbach family will receive guests on Saturday, November 15, 2025 from 10 am to 12 pm in the Snyder Funeral Homes, Marion Avenue Chapel, where a funeral service celebrating Helen's life will begin immediately after. Burial to follow in Mansfield Memorial Park.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Helen's family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on her obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.