Thomas M. Rigg

1952 - 2025

Thomas M. Rigg

Nov 6, 1952 - Jan 10, 2025

Thomas M. Rigg, 72 of Valparaiso, passed away on Friday, January 10, 2025, surrounded by his loving family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend who brought warmth and kindness into the lives of everyone he met. Tom will be missed greatly by all his friends and family.

Tom was born November 6, 1952, in Valparaiso, the son of Leon G. and Mildred (Dilley) Rigg. A 1971 graduate of Washington Township High School, Tom established Rigg's Mowers and More in 1981, which he grew from the ground up. On February 16, 2004, Tom married Deborah Nowlin, who survives along with his children, Dan (Lori) Rigg and Lisa (Brian Schwinkendorf) Rigg; step-daughters, Jennifer (David) Petasnick, Kathy (Jerod) Wright, and Beth (Derek Mead) Shreffler; grandchildren, Caleb Rigg and Keely (Austin) Magley; step-grandchildren, Sam, Grace, and Isabella Petasnick, Ellie, Anna, and Hank Wright, and T.J. and Madison Shreffler; great-grandchildren, Greyson and Cooper Magley; sister, Judy Mathias; best friend, Jeff (Linda) Derr; his fur babies, Lexi and Tucker; and many extended family and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, James and Wallace Rigg.

Tom was endlessly devoted to the love of his life, Deb. He was the heart and backbone of his family, always putting his loved ones first. His wisdom and unwavering support made him the cornerstone of every gathering. He took immense pride in his wife and family and made it his life's mission to ensure everyone felt his love every step of the way. Tom had an uncanny ability to connect with people and was a friend to all who crossed his path. His laugh was contagious, his stories legendary, and his advice golden. His circle of friends was wide, and his loss will be deeply felt by many.

Furthermore, Tom was committed not only to his family and friends but also to his business. He had a dream and turned it into a reality. Using his experience from working his way to a Parts Manager in his earlier days, he founded Rigg's Mowers and More in 1981 and brought the utmost excellent service to all who entered. From employees to customers, Tom never treated people with anything other than respect and kindness. Through his hard work and persistence Tom was among the first three winners of the Yard and Garden Dealers Excellence Awards being recognized nationwide as the top of over 15,000 other dealers in 2004. He loved what he did and took pride in his work. Being the man he was, he never let his pride get in the way. He always stayed true to who he was. Instilling honesty and integrity in all who surrounded him, from his employees to his family. All of whom he loved.

Tom lived life with the aura of a hot rod-wide open. It was a life full of love, laughter, and adventure. His passion for cars was unmatched, whether he was fixing them, talking about them, or simply admiring their beauty. He was happiest cruising along Florida's Gulf Coast, a place he cherished deeply. Tom's full-throttle zeal for life will continue on through the lives of everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

Visitation will be held on Friday, January 17, 2025 from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM at Moeller Funeral Home 104 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, with a Funeral Service beginning at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lakeshore Paws.