Final Salute

Ira Charles Frederick Rigger passed away on December 11, 2023, at 100 years old. He was born in Baltimore MD on January 23, 1923, to Augustus and Mildred (Worsdell) Rigger, and lived in Cockeysville Maryland since 1950. He is survived by his loving wife of over 20 years, Yong Sun Lee and his children, Betsy Lynch and her husband, Richard Campbell of Ohio, Fred Rigger of Cockeysville MD, and Kathy Angstadt of White Hall MD. His legacy lives on in his 9 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Elizabeth Rush Rigger and his daughter, Margaret (Peggy) McClure. Ira’s two brothers are Ralph Rigger, and previously deceased Robert Rigger.

Ira graduated from Baltimore Polytechnical Institute in Baltimore City and then joined the Navy to serve as a Seabee in the Pacific during WWII, one of the few who served on Peleliu, Guam, and Iwo Jima. As a WWII Vet, he brought home his Seabee “can do” moto and was a true entrepreneur with an emphasis on construction and land development throughout the United States. He was founder and owner of Padonia Park Club in Cockeysville MD since 1960. Ira was an active member of the Cockeysville Lions Club for over 60 years as well as President and member of several professional organizations on a local and national level. His hobbies included gardening, skiing, and sailing. His final wish was to donate his body to science. A celebration of his life will be held at Padonia Park Club, 12006 Jennifer Rd, Cockeysville, MD 21030, on Saturday, February 3, 2024, from noon – 4pm. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to his church, Lighthouse Church 6691 Baymeadow Dr. #200 Glen Burnie, MD 21060, or a veteran’s organization of your choice. His century of life blessed us with many amazing stories and memories to treasure.

Published by Baltimore Sun from Dec. 27 to Dec. 31, 2023.