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IRON MOUNTAIN -- Claudia Rigoni, 89, of Iron Mountain, passed away peacefully on Oct. 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.
Claudia was born on June 13, 1937, in Providence, R.I., to David and Mary Roberts. As a young girl, she cherished spending time along the shores of the Atlantic Ocean. At the age of 12, she moved with her family to East Lansing, Mich., where she later graduated from East Lansing High School and went on to attend Michigan State University.
It was at Michigan State University that Claudia met the love of her life, Bob Rigoni. The two were married in 1957 at the MSU Alumni Memorial Chapel, beginning a loving partnership that would shape the course of her life. Following graduation, they moved to Iron Mountain, where they built their home, raised their family and created a lifetime of treasured memories.
Family was at the heart of Claudia's life. She especially enjoyed spending time with her loved ones at their cottage in Spread Eagle, where water skiing and days on the lake became cherished family traditions. She also enjoyed snow skiing with her family, embracing every opportunity to share adventures and make lasting memories together.
Claudia was deeply committed to her community and generously gave her time and talents to many organizations and causes. She played an instrumental role in establishing the volunteer program at Dickinson County Healthcare System and served on the Iron Mountain School Board, including as its president. She was also an active member of P.E.O. Chapter CX, participated in bridge clubs, and contributed to numerous other community organizations. Her dedication reflected her genuine interest in helping others and making a meaningful difference in the community she called home.
After raising her family, Claudia began a career in real estate, a profession she embraced with enthusiasm and dedication. Her work eventually led her to become part-owner of Stephens Real Estate.
In later years, Claudia looked forward to spending winters at the family home in Naples, Fla., where she enjoyed the warmth of the sunshine, the beauty of the beach, and the slower pace of life by the water. Her faith remained an important part of her life, and she was a member of Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Iron Mountain and Christus Victor Church in Naples.
Claudia will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her commitment to her community, and the many friendships she nurtured throughout her life. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
Claudia is survived by her three children, David (Robin) Rigoni of Kingsford, Doug (Berta) Rigoni of Spread Eagle, and Dian (Jeff) Newkirk of The Woodlands, Texas; her grandchildren, Chris (Melissa) Rigoni, Steve (Lindsay) Rigoni, Rob Rigoni, Payton Newkirk, Emma Newkirk, and Mary Newkirk; and her great-grandchildren, Anthony, Sofia, Claire, and Ryker. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Jean Harper, and her niece and nephews, Scott, Heidi, and Scott.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Bob; her parents, David and Mary Roberts; her sister, Phyllis; and her brother-in-law, Alger Peterson.
The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to many wonderful caregivers at Evergreen in Kingsford for the kindness, compassion, and loving care they provided Claudia. Their support and dedication brought comfort to Claudia and her family and will always be deeply appreciated.
A memorial will be established in Claudia's memory.
Visitation will take place from 9:30 until 11 a.m. on Thursday, Oct. 15, at Our Saviour's Lutheran Church in Iron Mountain. Funeral services will follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with the Rev. Dr. Nicholas Hopman officiating. Burial will take place in Iron Mountain Cemetery Park.
Condolences may be expressed to the family of Claudia Rigoni online at www.ernashfuneralhomes.com.
The family has entrusted the Erickson-Rochon & Nash Funeral Home of Iron Mountain with the arrangements.