George Emmett Riggins, Jr.

George Emmett Riggins, Jr.There have been few folks in broadcasting nicer than George Riggins, who passed away on June 2nd at the age of 94.George was born at Oakland, CA to parents George Riggins and Vera Bedford.A graduate from Redlands University, Redlands, CA, he served in the Army Air Force in WWII, and Air Force in Korea. He was an active member of the Lakewood, CA Masonic Lodge, # 728 F. & A.M.where he served three terms as Master of the Lodge. He was also a ham operator, with Amateur Radio club of Long Beach, CA, QCWA with the call sign WA6DZR for 50 years.In March of 1944, George married his dear wife, Helen.Many broadcasters know George for his long service to the industry, primarily in the Southern California area, although he served customers from all over from Riggins’ Electronic Sales in Long Beach, CA (right).George had a reputation for keeping classic broadcast equipment running, especially cartridge machines – rewinding the carts for clients over the years. He represented several lines of gear, and usually found in the Broadcast Electronics (BE) booth at NAB.Richard Rudman said: “The way George ran his business and his life was personal, customer-centered, and a shining mirror of who he was as a human being. Those of us who knew George are better for the experience. “If there is any old broadcast equipment in Heaven, including tape cartridge players and carts that need rewinding, all will be in good order shortly. “I would say Rest in Peace, George, but I cannot remember George ever resting.”Burt Weiner said: “George represented the very best that we can be as a person. He was always there for you …”He is survived by his loving wife, Helen N. Riggins; daughters, Elizabeth (Bob) Soukup and Ann (Tom) William; grandchildren, Christopher Bedford Williams, Jennifer Kristen Soukup, Sarah Virginia Williams, many cousins and friends.  Obituary written by Barry MishkindLuyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401