Frank E. Riggle Sr., 79, of Strasburg passed away on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at the Cleveland Clinic Mercy Medical Center in Canton surrounded by his loving family.
Born on March 14, 1945, in Aleppo, Pennsylvania he was a son of the late Elbin and Elizabeth Finnegan Riggle. Frank was also preceded in death by his brother, Robert Riggle; sisters, Jane Morris and Joan Hunter; brothers in law, Wayne Tharp and Harry Morris.
Frank lived a life characterized by hard work, generosity, and a deep commitment to his family and community. He began his career in the oil and gas industry at the young of 15, amassing a remarkable 64 years of experience. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to own several businesses, including Yesterday’s Memories Antique Shop in Strasburg, Valley Oil Well Service, and co-owning Nighthawk Holdings LLC and Brilex LLC in Millersburg alongside his nephew, Rob Hunter. Frank’s legacy in this industry speaks volumes about his work ethic and dedication to providing for his family.
Frank was a 1963 graduate of Millersburg High School. He felt strongly about helping people throughout his life, a sentiment he carried into his final days by being an organ and tissue donor. Frank had a diverse range of hobbies and interests. He was passionate about refinishing and selling antiques and had a keen eye for collecting and restoring classic cars. Some of his fondest memories were created at flea markets, swap meets, and car shows. An avid racing fan, Frank enjoyed attending NASCAR and Sprint Car races and took great joy in being the “team owner” of a go-cart racing team for his grandchildren. He cherished spending time with family, whether it was following the athletic pursuits of his children and grandchildren or enjoying outdoor activities. Fishing trips to Lake Erie and Canada, alongside many cherished family beach vacations, were highlights of his life, as well as his status as a permanent camper at Long Lake in Lakeville, Ohio.
Frank is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia “Pat” Smith Riggle, whom he married on July 27, 1963. He leaves behind his children, Diana (Ron) Flickinger of Strasburg and Frank (Hali) Riggle Jr. of Texas; sister, Donna Faye Tharp of Pennsylvania; grandchildren, Kylie and Ty Flickinger, Irelie (Kelsey) Schonewolf, Elizabeth, Ariah, Trey, Jacob, and Madi Riggle. Additionally, Frank is remembered by his brothers-in-law, John (Sam) Smith of Glenmont and Dennis Smith of Wooster, sisters-in-law, Alyce (David) Garnes of Nashville, Ohio, and Karen Stough of Wooster; life-long friend, Bob Morrison of Millersburg, as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family members who will miss him dearly.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 7th starting at 11:00 am in the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home and Crematory at Strasburg with Pastor Jason Rissler officiating. The family will be greeting friends on Friday at the Strasburg funeral home from 5 to 7 pm, and one hour prior to the funeral on Saturday.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Tiger Foundation at 140 North Bodmer Ave. Strasburg, Ohio 44680.
Toland-Herzig Funeral Home – Strasburg
140 S Bodmer Ave
Strasburg, Ohio 44680
330-343-6132
www.tolandherzig.com