FROM EAST BAY TIMES

LONNIE RIGGS.     8/26/47 – 3/07/24

MEADOW VISTA

We are deeply saddened with the sudden passing of Lonnie who was a father, grandfather, brother, and cousin. Lonnie was born in Richmond to Eugene and Irene Riggs. He started his school years in Berkeley in 1952. In 1956 his family moved to Pleasant Hill where he went to Oak Park Elementary with his older sister Carol and younger sister Sherry while his mother and father were waiting for the arrival of his new sister Linda. For 7th & 8th grade he attended Pleasant Hill Intermediate. After graduation, he went to Pleasant Hill High School where he excelled in football, receiving the “Most Valuable Player” award. Lonnie graduated from Pleasant Hill High in 1965. Lonnie was drafted into the Army on October 26,1966 and was first stationed in Anchorage Alaska. Lonnie was sent to Vietnam and thankfully returned home when he was honorably discharged October 15, 1968. He was hired by Shell Oil Refinery in Martinez, where he became a general operator until he retired after 43 years. During this time, he got married and had his son Tim. The family moved to Dixon where he bought his first home where he lived for about 20 years. He later sold and bought a house in Martinez to be closer to work. After the passing of his dad in 1991 Lonnie purchased his parents’ house in Meadow Vista as his future retirement home. This move allowed Lonnie to be closer to his son Tim, and his daughter-in- law Jennifer, and his 2 grandkids Makayla and Hunter. He spent many happy hours driving them to and from school and enjoyed watching all the kids’ activities. Lonnie took up golf and played every Wednesday with a group of friends. He also joined a metal detecting club and participated in meetings and hunts. Lonnie was very lucky and was well known for winning the raffle prizes. Lonnie will be loved and celebrated by his friends and family for many years to come.