Gregory Allen “Buck” Riggs, age 61 of South Bend, passed away with his family by his side at the Center for Hospice, Raclin House on Sunday, February 5, 2023.  Buck was born July 23, 1961, in South Bend to the late Phillip and Amelia (Winrott) Riggs.  The area Buck was raised in was often referred to as “Dogpatch” and Buck was proud to be a part of growing up in that area of South Bend.  He often said throughout his life that being a “Dogpatch kid” gave him the strength and toughness to take on anything.  He attended Adams High School and later began a long career with Nationwide Papers as a supervisor in their warehouse.  On June 19, 1982, he married Tammy Lannan in South Bend.  They celebrated 40 years of marriage.

Tammy survives, along with their children Jennifer (Herbert Maxwell Jr.) Riggs, Crystal Riggs, and Adam Riggs, all of South Bend, and his “adopted daughter” Lori “Brat” McIntire.  Surviving as well are his grandchildren whom he adored; Aaliyah, Kassandra, Alayzia, Sydni, Jenna Lah’ria, Herbert “Max” III, Kelsie, Maddie and Allie, along with his great grandchild Kaidence.  Buck is also survived by his siblings Jerry “Dud” (Mel) Riggs, John (Pattie) Riggs, Ricky Riggs, Peggy Riggs, Barb Riggs, Phyllis Murdick and Sally Riggs, as well as his sister-in-law, Kim Riggs and his brother-in-law Enrique Morales.  His brother Randy Riggs, his sister Susie Matamoros- Morales and his son-in-law, Keith Guffey preceded him in death.

A celebration of Buck’s life will be held from 4-6 pm Friday, February 10, 2023, at Cruz Family Funeral Home in Osceola. 

Buck left Nationwide Papers after several years to take a more hands on role at home with his children.  His family meant the world to him, and he enjoyed being able to stay home and help them in their day-to-day endeavors.  He later took a full-time position with Wal-Mart in Indian Ridge Plaza in the lawn and garden department where his easy going personality allowed him to meet numerous people throughout the years. 

When he wasn’t working, Buck could be found on the golf course with his brothers or fishing in a quiet spot with his friends.  He was also an avid fan of the Chicago Bears and loved watching them play, for better or for worse.  Buck also loved watching westerns and was a huge fan of John Wayne, collecting his movies and posters for several years.  He was also a wonderful cook and loved spending time in the kitchen making his world-famous brownies for family, friends and co-workers.

More than anything else, Buck loved to be with his family.  His grandchildren adored him, and he had a unique nickname for each of them.  He loved taking them for rides on his lawn mower and spending time with each of them individually. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made directly towards his final expenses by following the instructions on the “DONATE” tab above.  To light a virtual candle, share a story of his life, or leave a message of comfort for Buck’s family, please follow the links provided on the “Tribute Wall” tab above.

02/10/2023 JFC