Obituary of Elmer Riggs

Elmer “Dwane” Riggs, lost his battle with cancer on January 26, 2007. Dwane was born on August 15, 1920 to Seth and Nina Riggs in South Cle Elum, Washington at the Old County fish hatchery. Dwane always claimed they never raised a “Sucker” there. After graduating from Easton High School and Lincoln Electric Welding School in Cleveland, Ohio, Dwane served in the Navy during WWII. He worked various jobs, eventually retiring from the Washington State Department of Highways as an Equipment Superintendent. Dwane is survived by his wife of 58 years, Thersia; daughter, Elaine (Henry “Marty”) Gideon; four grandchildren; Jerry (Kim) Riggs, Jennifer (Ronnie) Mathews, Seth Gideon, Rose Gideon; and five great-grandchildren. Dwane was preceded in death by his son, Jerry. Dwane and his family enjoyed many years of fishing, camping, hunting, and huckleberry picking trips. After retiring, Dwane and Thersia enjoyed many years of traveling. He loved to tinker and always had a project going. Dwane and his many stories will be missed by all who knew him. There will be a memorial mass on Saturday, February 3, 2007 at St. Michael’s Parish in Olympia beginning at 9:00 a.m. A graveside service will be held at a later date at the Thorp Cemetery in Thorp, Washington. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to a charity of your choice.