Pinal Today

It is with heavy hearts that we share the news today of the passing of City of Maricopa Public Works Director Mike Riggs.

Mike started with the City as a Parks Crew Lead in February 2014 right before the opening of Copper Sky (coming from the City of Chandler).  He then became Parks Manager, Deputy Director of Community Services, before becoming a Director of Public Services and adding responsibilities for Streets, Fleet, Facilities, CIP, and more.

A fourth generations Arizonan, Mike’s connection with Maricopa runs deep, as evidenced by the renaming of Riggs Road to honor his legendary family which farmed and ranched in the region for decades. His life was full of service to his family, his church, and his community. He organized countless service projects that benefited the City of Maricopa, Boy Scouts of America, 4-H and others. Mike was always the first to raise his hand to offer help or to figure out a way to make the impossible happen – hugely resourceful. And most acts of service also revolved around food for which he earned a cherished reputation. He shared his life with his wife, six children, and grandchildren

“It is difficult to quantify this loss, but what we know is there is a palpable hole in this community today, Every long-standing resident of Maricopa understands how great of a man Mike was. His life-long civic and religious dedication to this city has endeared him to all. Even those who didn’t know him personally have surely been impacted by his service.”- Mayor Nancy Smith.

"His mark will forever be on Maricopa in so many ways that often go uncelebrated. From overseeing the maintenance of our streets and advising City Council and senior leadership teams, to the tiniest details in designing landscaping layouts, holiday decorations, building sets for public addresses and events, manning a BBQ station to wow a crowd and always, always being a front-row champion for the residents of Maricopa. Many of the blessings that residents of this city enjoy today are only possible because of his contributions. He was the highest quality of leader and we are endlessly grateful to have called him our friend. Our deepest condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”- Mayor Nancy Smith

“Mike Riggs epitomized what it means to be a model citizen. He represented Maricopa with pride and class and was the type of humble person who was above no task. One day you’d find him spraying for mosquitos at midnight and the next morning he’d be right out on the road helping clean up hay from an overturned tractor. He always took every opportunity to serve others, often on his own time and at his personal expense." City Manager Rick Horst.

"Mike also possessed a uncommon degree of dependability. When he got involved in a project, you knew of surety that nothing could stand in the way of him completing the task. His optimistic attitude, enlivening smile and infectious laugh made him a joy to work with. He constantly amazed us with his humor, his knowledge, his stories and his compassion. Mike will be greatly missed and on behalf of the entire city, we extend our condolences and gratitude to his family.“- City Manager Rick Horst.

Services will be announced at a later date. The family has requested privacy at this time.

Original source can be found here.