Henry Rigby

Sterling Henry Rigby, 95, of Idaho Falls, passed away May 9, 2024, at his home.

Henry was born on October 28, 1928, to Sterling and Elizabeth Rigby and lived his whole life in Idaho Falls. He graduated from Idaho Falls High School in 1947. He then attended Idaho State University and Ricks College, receiving a Bachelor's Degree in Science. He went on to teach Chemistry at Idaho Falls High School from 1952 to 1956.

He then began working for Westinghouse at the INEL for 36 years with various responsibilities and retired as a senior sub-contractor from Westinghouse in 1993. He turned down three substantial promotion transfers back East with Westinghouse in order to raise his two children, Debbie and David, in the small town atmosphere of Idaho Falls. The promotions he turned down were to Pittsburgh, PA; South Boston, VA; and Jacksonville, FL.

In his youth, he enjoyed traveling to 49 states, excluding Hawaii, with his Uncle Frank. He also enjoyed making homemade fireworks in a homemade lab in his parents' basement. Henry earned his Eagle Scout Award, the first Eagle Scout from Trinity United Methodist Church Troop 6. He enjoyed working as a counselor at Grand Teton Council out of Driggs.

On August 18, 1956, he married Lois C Gisler, whom he met on a blind date arranged by Lois’ sister who was a chemistry student in Henry’s class. They were married for 60 years. He was active in the Idaho Russet Lions Club, and later served as secretary for three years, and then was elected for President from 1965 to 1966.

His hobbies were swimming and he worked as a certified Red Cross swimming instructor at Idaho Falls City swimming pool. He also enjoyed skiing, hiking, and camping. After retirement, he was very active with SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) for 15 years and served one year as National Director President for two years.

His grandsons, Jess, Cole, and cousin, Betty Johnson, would like to express their gratitude to the professional nursing staff of Alliance Hospice who provided the medical care and to the caregivers of Synergy who shared their life stories with Henry and who listened to Henry’s life stories. All made the last months of Henry’s life more comfortable and entertaining.

Henry was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Lois; and both of his children.

Private family services will be held.