Ryan Randall Riggin

“If he’s so smart, how come he’s dead?” — Homer Simpson

Ryan Randall Riggin, 37, passed away peacefully in his home on May 30th, 2020.

Ryan was born in Great Falls, Montana on March 27, 1983 to Ralph (Rick) Riggin and Catherine Richards. He lived in Great Falls for most of his life but, being the adventurous type, he also lived for short times on both coasts. Ryan had a passion for food and was an excellent cook. He spent most of his life working in that capacity.

He briefly joined the Army before he decided a different path was more suitable for him. As a child, Ryan was bright and curious and excelled at bowling, baseball, and art—all things that remained passions for him until his death. He met Lacole Dana in May of 2013 and they had two children, son River and daughter Lakelyn. His children were his greatest source of joy and love.

Ryan was an avid lover of the wilderness and enjoyed fishing and camping with his kids. He was also fond of games like poker and chess, loved to read, adored watching The Simpsons, and had a quick wit and wicked sense of humor. You could gauge Ryan’s love for you by how much he teased you—the more, the better. He also had a kindhearted disposition for the disadvantaged and would go out of his way to help people who needed it. As someone who struggled with many afflictions in his too-short life, he hated to see anyone else suffer needlessly.

He is survived by both his parents, Rick and Catherine; his son, River; daughter, Lakelyn; brothers, Luke Downes and Frank Pearson; sister, Sienna Ballard and her daughters; his grandparents, Don and Diane Richards; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family and friends who loved him dearly and will always remember what a big heart and mischievous smile he had.

Ryan was preceded in death by his Oma, Lydia Seufert; grandparents, Anne and Roger Sherman; and his grandmother, Barbara Piper of Libby.

Private services are being planned by the family, but no date has been set.

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