Michael Rigo

Mike passed away peacefully in Kobacker House on March 7. 2019 surrounded by family and friends and so much love. He is survived by his mother, Barbara Rigo, his father John Rigo, his brother David Rigo and wife Kori, his niece Roxy Rigo and nephew Shep Rigo.

Mike grew up in Worthington, Ohio. He was born with physical limitations but did more with his life than most of us could hope to do. He was an inspiration to the Worthington school system when he led the fight for individuals with disabilities to be accepted into the community. In middle school, he won the Yes I Can award for Exceptional Children for his community service and was honored in Indianapolis. He also won the YMCA Future of America Award for exceptional character. In high school he joined his classmates to build a Habitat House in Delaware. He also started working at Worthington Industries in the Human Resources department as a junior. After graduating from Worthington Killbourne High School, Mike helped open a new Home Depot store being built in Westerville. He worked there for 14 years as a greeter and a hardware associate. For the last three years he has volunteered several times a week at the Habitat Restore. Mike was the first honorary police officer in the city of Worthington. He was given that honor during his participation in the DARE program and continued to be a part of the WPD throughout the rest of his life. You could always find him at the Memorial Day Parade helping his fellow officers. Last year Mike was promoted to honorary Sergeant. He was also an honorary Marine. For the last 10 years he lived in his own Creative Housing apartment in Westerville with the support of the staff from Upreach. He attended Journey Church in Westerville.

To say that Mike loved people is an understatement. He was a great communicator and valued his family and friends as much as he valued the service he could do for others. He loved country music, NASCAR, and woodworking. To his caregivers who became part of our family… there are not enough words to express our gratitude. To the community of Worthington and the WPD… thank you for embracing a kid in a wheelchair and making him feel part of you. Mike's spirit will remain strong with everyone he has touched. We are glad he is at peace. Semper Fi Mike!

In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to a Charity which Mike was passionate about, Habitat for Humanity. Please send your donation in his memory to: Mike Rigo Fund, Habitat for Humanity of Mid-Ohio, 6665 Busch Blvd., Columbus, Ohio 43229.