David "Bert" Rigden

was born in Montgomery, Alabama on June 5, 1913. The family moved to Houston, Texas and then to southern California where Bert attended Hollywood High School. He enjoyed playing tennis and working as a page at the Los Angeles County Library. One of his fond memories was watching the performances in the Hollywood Bowl from an adjacent hill. After becoming a civil engineer in Los Angeles, Bert loved bringing his family up to Patricks Point State Park and Big Lagoon for camping, fishing and sailing. This led him to apply for a transfer with CalTrans to Eureka, "God's country", where he worked until he retired. After retiring Bert enjoyed amateur radio, leatherwork, wood carving, writing limericks, reading and most of all our family get-togethers. He loved teaching his grandchildren the game of chess. Bert is survived by his loving wife Jean, son Tom, daughter Diane and their families, including seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. He was a wonderful provider and a man of his word. One of Bert and Jean's favorite trips was up the Rogue River by jet boat for an overnight. Bert learned in the Christian Science church, as a boy, that God is Love. He later served as First Reader and President of the Board at First Church of Christ, Scientist in Eureka. When Bert reached his 90's, he asked Jesus into his heart and a great peace came over him. His 98th birthday was filled with family and fun. He enjoyed meeting his two new great granddaughters who were born in February and March of this year. Bert was able to be home during his battle with dementia. We thank devoted family members who helped make this possible. It was definitely a team effort. We especially thank Donna Rees for her excellent care providing and friendship. St Joseph Staff, we appreciate your tender loving care in the last few days of Bert's journey here and peaceful transition to heaven where we know he is enjoying even greater adventures! Bert joins a son, Jim Rigden, in heaven. Remaining family include his children Tom and Deborah Rigden, Nick and Diane (Rigden) De Ruyter. Grandchildren Isaac and Jackie Keegan Creighton, Jenee (Rigden) Deitcher, Gaird and Mia Rigden, Peter Rigden, Meghan Wyatt, Aaron and Christine (De Ruyter) Reiher, Eric De Ruyter. Great grandchildren Jaden, Lyon and Gianna Rigden, Flynn and Gaelen Keegan Creighton, Aliza Reiher. A private family gathering will be held in his home. Arrangements are under the care of Sanders Funeral Home, Eureka. Please sign the guests book at www.Times-Standard.com, click obits.