Joseph M. Rigard

Joseph M. Rigard, 88, of 142 Rambler Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully with his family by his side Wednesday, September 17, 2025 at Penn Highlands Elk.

He was born July 12, 1937 in St. Marys, son of the late Francis and Alice Hannibal Rigard. He was a lifelong resident of the area and a graduate of St. Marys High School, Class of 1955.  Joe was proud of his service to his country with the United States Army and was employed at Keystone Carbon Company and GKN as a manager in the shipping department.

On August 29, 1959, in St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Joe married Jean Baldock, who survives.  They were blessed to share sixty-six years of marriage after meeting on a blind date in England during Joe’s military service.

Along with his loving wife, he is survived by his daughter, Tina Pistner and her husband, Stephen, of Kersey; two grandchildren: Anthony Pistner (Sara) of St. Marys and Allen Pistner (Jessica) of Hurricane, WV; four great-grandchildren: Lucas, Haley, Ryan, and Abigail; his sister, Doris Erich (Arnold “Butch”); and his sister-in-law, Sherri Rigard, of Texas.

In addition to his parents, Joe was preceded in death by his son, Barry Rigard; his brother, Gerald “Jerry” Rigard; and a great-granddaughter, Hannah Pistner.

Joe was a parishioner of Sacred Heart Church and past president of the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail.  Joe was a kind and gentle man who never raised his voice and would greet you with a warm smile.  He got along with everyone and made friends everywhere he went.  He had a great sense of humor, quick wit, and could easily make you laugh. Joe was a devoted family man and could always be found in the stands no matter the weather supporting his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Joe enjoyed spending time outdoors.  He loved to be out hunting and fishing, especially with his grandsons over the years.  Joe was also an avid golf fan and enjoyed playing a round with friends and family or relaxing while watching the professionals.  He will be greatly missed by all.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held in the Sacred Heart Church on Tuesday, September 23, 2025 at 12:00PM with Rev. Thomas Curry, O.S.B., celebrating. Full military rites will be accorded by the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail. Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery.

There will be no visitation.

Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the St. Marys Servicemen’s Burial Detail, 168 Center Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 or to the Elk County Humane Society, 1029 E. Eschbach Road, St. Marys, PA 15857.