Daniel Eugene Riggs

Daniel Eugene Riggs, age 61, born in Des Moines, Iowa to Stephen Jerry and Carol Susan Riggs passed away peacefully at his home with his wife Lisa at his side holding his hand. Daniel and Lisa fought valiantly against his illness for several years. It was the only hard fought battle unconquered for them both. Despite Daniel's lifelong mastery of life skills, faith and friendship, to the heartbreak of many, he succumbed. 

Daniel's generosity of spirit, bravery, loyalty and perseverance were innate to his character and will be forever remembered and cherished by those who came to know and love him. 

Daniel was honorably discharged from the United States Army following 8 1/2 years of service. He was a decorated combat engineer and weapons' expert. Daniel loved the United States of America. He flew our flag proudly on his homes and wholeheartedly supported the protections of our God given rights outlined in the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. Following discharge from the Army, Daniel went on to an entry position at the Federal Bureau of Prisons. His work ethic and desire to achieve and improve allowed him to work through the ranks to elevated positions throughout the nationwide system ultimately overseeing the safety of the most secure prisons in the world. What he witnessed, took it's toll to some measure but his powerful faith would not allow him to be overcome by the darkness he had witnessed. Faithful, honest and indomitable, Daniel left his mark upon those who recognized his courage.

Lisa, his wife of 26 years learned to fish Walleye under the mastery of Daniel. He would later regret the student surpassing the teacher. But he enjoyed the meal all the same. 

 Daniel was an adventurer, forever curious and hungry for developing new skills. He traveled the world with a unique ability to relate, connect and make everywhere a new home and everyone a new friend. 

 After retirement, the ever hungry Daniel became a pilot who flew high above the mountains of Colorado. He obtained his CDL and drove big rigs across the country. 

While living in Mississippi he got a little bored and obtained his realtor's license and starting selling homes. After his wife Lisa opened her own business, Daniel learned accounting and medical billing in order to assist. When Lisa needed scrubs for her nursing job, Dan sewed them perfectly. And when he wasn't busy with other things, Dan was a master chef with always a big thank you from everyone who came to dinner. 

The man was a class act, a trusted and devoted husband, the friend that everyone wanted, a patriotic serviceman, a law enforcement officer with a heart and a loss to the world. 

I will miss you forever, 

Lisa

Online condolences may be left at www.mahnfamilyfuneralhome.com