Remembrance of the Life of Robert Riggs CoL
Posted on October 22, 2019, by Loretto Community
Nov. 13, 1928 – Oct. 22, 2019
“I will give you the treasures of darkness and riches hidden in secret places so that you may know that it is I the God of Israel, who calls you by your name.” Is. 45:3
Robert Riggs knew this Scripture well because he found treasures of darkness hidden in his life and in secret places at the Denver Loretto Center during his 10 years as Director of Maintenance. He would say, “I’ve been to parts of this building that you didn’t even know existed!” Robert also knew the riches hidden and not so hidden there as his care for the place and the residents became so meaningful to him and to all who lived at Loretto.
In recommending Robert for co-membership, Sister Mary Denis wrote, “Bob has acquired a Loretto Spirit while working with the sisters. He has a deep esteem for the elderly retired sisters. I think the Community would be enriched by accepting this fine Catholic gentleman. He will be an asset to any Community Group he might be asked to join.” Sister Celine Marie DeSmet wrote, “Bob helps in any way he can, we have benefitted from his experience. Bob and his family are interested in our goals of freedom and justice.”
God called Robert from his birth, naming his many treasures – from his first day of life on Nov. 13, 1928, to his Marine Corps service in 1946 to his work at Denver Loretto Center in 1984 to his marriage to Marjorie in 1965 and to the birth of his children – Gretchen in 1966 and Tom in 1967 – to his acceptance into the Catholic Church in a ceremony at the Loretto Center in Denver in 1986 and then co-membership on Jan. 18, 1997. A journey of hope and faith for Bob.
The final call from God came to Robert on Oct. 22, 2019. He leaves his wife, Marge, also a co-member; his daughter, Gretchen Smith (Eric); his son, Thomas Riggs (Tammy); and two grandchildren, Emerald and Alexander. He is preceded in death by his parents and his seven brothers and sisters. A funeral Mass for Bob was celebrated Nov. 8 at Notre Dame Church in Denver.
We wish you eternal peace, Bob.
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