Paul J. "Snookie" Riga

PAUL J. RIGA – of Woburn, died peacefully, November 5th at the age of eighty-two. Cherished father of Paul J. Riga, Jr., his partner Nancy Kinney of Woburn and Cynthia Tenney, her husband John of Marlborough. Beloved son of the late Paul Riga and Mary (Saulnier) Riga. Dear brother of Donna Parker, her husband Melvin of Florida. Loving grandfather Nicolas Ruggiero, his wife Brianna of Marlborough and Matthew Ruggiero, his wife Charlotte of Waltham. Adored uncle of Sarah Fawcette, Michael Parker, and Brian Parker. Paul is also survived by his longtime loving companion Annemarie Martini-Collins of Woburn. A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, December 4th at 11 A.M in Woodbrook Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801.

Paul, fondly known by many as "Snookie", passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, hard work, and quiet strength.

A proud Army veteran, Paul served during the Vietnam War era and in the Army Reserves as a heavy artillery mechanic. Following his military service, he dedicated many years to his professional life, first working in the family business, then as a truck driver for Roberto Trucking, and later as a paint specialist for RCA/General Electric until his retirement.

Paul's lifelong passion for cars began in his youth, working alongside his father at the family business, Riga's Auto Body. There he honed his skills in auto detailing, painting, and mechanics-talents he carried through life and applied to his own collection of vintage cars. A devoted NASCAR fan, he found joy in every rev of an engine and every race day thrill.

Though a private person, Paul cherished time spent with his many friends and was often seen enjoying a good night out at various organizations around Woburn and Stoneham.

Life's journey was not without its challenges, yet Paul met them with quiet perseverance. He remained especially close with his son, Paul Jr., whose care and companionship were constants in his life. He also enjoyed many happy years with his cats Freddie & Sonny.

Paul's story is one of individuality and endurance, remembered with dignity and affection by all who knew him. He is survived by Paul J. Riga, Jr., his partner Nancy Kinney of Woburn and Cynthia Tenney, her husband John of Marlborough who honor his memory in their own ways and carry forward the story of his life. Beloved son of the late Paul Riga and Mary (Saulnier) Riga. Dear brother of Donna Parker, her husband Melvin of Florida. Grandfather of Nicolas Ruggiero, his wife Brianna of Marlborough and Matthew Ruggiero, his wife Charlotte of Waltham. Uncle of Sarah Fawcette, Michael Parker, and Brian Parker.

May he find peace in eternal rest and may those who knew and loved him find comfort in reflection and remembrance.

A Graveside Service with Military Honors will be held on Thursday, December 4th at 11 A.M in Woodbrook Cemetery. Arrangements are under the direction of the Lynch-Cantillon Funeral Home, 263 Main Street, Woburn, MA 01801.