Richard R. Bigley

Richard R. “Mike” Bigley, age 85, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2017 surrounded by loved ones.

Born May 13, 1931 in Detroit, he was preceded in death by his father George Arthur Bigley and his mother Esther (nee O’Brien) Bigley, and by his devoted wife of 59 years Betty J. Bigley (nee Baudino). He is survived by five children, Barbara Hallal, Maggie Bigley Musnuff (Basil), Michael Bigley, Susan Bigley, and George Bigley (Cathy), and by seven grandchildren who adored him.

Mr. Bigley received a B.A. from Northwestern University in 1953, after which he served as an officer in the United States Marine Corp from 1954-1956. While stationed at Camp Pendleton, he met his future wife while she was stationed nearby in San Diego as a Navy nurse. After a few years in Detroit the Bigleys moved to Cleveland in 1963, where Mr. Bigley worked at the Cleveland Twist Drill Company, and later in his career at Bauer Ladder Company.

The Bigleys were avid breeders of black Labrador retrievers and enjoyed many successes competing in field trials around the country. Mr. Bigley was also an accomplished golfer, belonging at various times to The Country Club in Pepper Pike, and Club Walden in Aurora. He was also a voracious reader of history, as well as a fan of bluegrass music.

Family will receive friends at STEINBAUER FUNERAL HOME, 33375 BAINBRIDGE ROAD, SOLON FROM 5-7PM on THURSDAY, APRIL 20.

MEMORIAL MASS will be conducted on FRIDAY, APRIL 21 AT 10AM AT OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP, 342 S. Chillicothe Road, Aurora, followed by a private (family only) Interment at All Saints Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be sent to the Geauga Humane Society.