Gerald Rigg

In Loving Memory of Dr. Gerald Rigg

With hearts full of love and gratitude, we celebrate the life of Dr. Gerald Rigg, who passed peacefully on June 23, 2025, at the age of 89 surrounded by his loving family.

Gerald was born in Detroit, Michigan on April 24, 1936 to Charles and Irena (Cox) Rigg. He graduated from Redford High School in 1954; University of Michigan in 1958, with highest honors and became a member of Phi Beta Kappa; and U of M Medical School in 1962. He completed an internal medicine residency and nephrology fellowship at Wayne County General Hospital, where he was at the forefront of establishing kidney dialysis in Michigan. He practiced there until drafted into the Army as a physician in Fort Hood, Texas, in 1968. Upon returning to Michigan, Gerald resumed his position at Wayne County General, practicing and teaching U of M medical students. He taught not just through lectures but through living – showing that life's greatest rewards come through hard work, gentle humility, boundless kindness, and a little bit of humor. After Wayne County General closed in 1986, Gerald became the director of the Taylor Dialysis Unit and spent the rest of his career there. He received many accolades throughout his career, including outstanding teaching recognition by his students and the Champion of Hope Award given by the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. Gerald retired in 2008 after a long and fulfilling career.

In 1958, Gerald married Gertrude Scheib Rigg. Together they raised three children: Karl (deceased), Kurt (Amy), and Suzanne (Steve). Throughout his life, Gerald enjoyed cycling, running, fishing, gardening, U of M sports, and his adoring grandchildren, each one a source of immense pride and joy. One of the greatest lessons taught to his grandchildren was that hard work, a humble spirit, and laughter are the world’s greatest medicine.

Surviving are his devoted wife, Gertrude, his loving children Kurt and Suzanne, and his four grandchildren Kyle (Hannah), Rebecca, Emma, and Molly. He was preceded in death by his son, Karl.

A Visitation will be held on Saturday, June 28 from 12 pm - 2 pm at the R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Home, 15451 Farmington Rd, Livonia, MI 48154. A Memorial Service will immediately follow at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to: The National Kidney Foundation or the Alzheimer’s Association.

Please sign Gerald's Guestbook.