John Andrew Rigirozzi

John A. Rigirozzi, a long-time Canon City and Florence resident, sadly and unexpectedly passed away on June 4, 2022. John was born on July 17, 1943, in Canon City, Colorado. John was preceded in death by his father, Joe Rigirozzi; mother, Ella Rigirozzi-Garner; and brother, Thomas Rigirozzi. He is survived by his wife, Cathy; daughter, Lisa (Benji) Larance; son, Michael (Camie) Rigirozzi; grandchildren, Hannah Rigirozzi, Andrew Rigirozzi, and Olivia Larance; sisters, Angelina Gardner and Iva Jo Anderson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

After graduating from Florence High School in 1961, John enlisted in the US Air Force and served in the Vietnam War. He held many occupations throughout his life, including at the CF&I Steel Mill in Pueblo, Portland Cement Company, Estes Rocketry, Colorado Department of Corrections, and he served a mean drink as a bartender.

John was well-known throughout the community for his participation and service in several organizations. He was a founding member of the Royal Gorge Lodge #2866 Order, Sons and Daughters of Italy in America, an associate member of Southern Colorado Lodge #2038 OSDIA, and the First Vice President of the Grand Lodge OSDIA in Colorado. John was a mainstay in town, promoting all the Sons and Daughters of Italy events – posters, tickets, and sponsors. Many years ago, he was honored to serve as a City Councilman. More recently he became a board member of the Blossom Committee. John was privileged to participate in an Honor Flight to Washington, D.C., as a Veteran of the Vietnam War. In addition to work and organizations, he enjoyed spending time at the family cabin in Pitkin, Colorado, was an avid fisherman, hunter, and outdoorsman, and bowled many seasons with his favorite bowling team. John and his wife Cathy traveled extensively in their RV with many dear friends to all corners of the country. They also were able to make several European trips; most notably to search for Italian heritage information as well as to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

A friend to all, John never met a stranger and will be missed by all whose lives he touched. Family and friends will be celebrating John’s life on June 11, 2022, at 3 pm, at Rudd Park, 598 North 12th Avenue in Canon City. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to the following organizations: Royal Gorge Lodge #2866 OSDIA Scholarship Fund, at 444 Glenmoor Drive, Canon City, Colorado 81212, or the Southern Colorado Honor Flight by visiting https://honorflightsoco.net/donate. If you knew John, you’ll know that “some guy” is going to miss John as much as his family will.

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