|
From the Napa Valley Register 10/28/20
Ted Wigger
1949 - 2020
Theodore John Wigger left our world on October 22, just short of his seventy-first birthday, following a complex illness. He chose to live fully for as long as he could, never failing to enjoy travel, a hearty meal with friends, or the chance to share a good joke.
While Ted was a surprise for his parents, Henry and Mary Wigger, he was never a disappointment. He graduated from Napa High in 1967 and went on to get a degree in history from the University of New Hampshire. Later, Ted returned to school to complete a Master's in Public Health from the University of Southern California.
He entered the family business, Treadway and Wigger Funeral Chapel, when he recognized that he could fill a need. He maintained a business that not only supported his extended family, but also was an integral part of Napa's history. Generations of Napa families counted on Ted and the fine staff of Treadway and Wigger to see them through life's most difficult transitions. He had a unique blend of calmness, compassion, and capability that helped us as we honored our loved ones' lives. Ted was also a student of Napa history and could link families' histories several generations back. He loved the Napa community, his connections to other downtown businesses, and the Napa people.
Ted had a wide and diverse group of friends from high school, college, and more recent experiences. All of us will miss the opportunity to test a new restaurant with him and share our review of the menu, the noise level, and especially the desserts. Several got to share travel to Europe or, more recently, Hawaii, with Ted and all have great stories to tell.
Ted was survived by his brother, Henry (Bud) who died just two days after Ted, his niece Carol and nephew, Mark, extended family including several cousins, and many friends who considered him part of their families. He was predeceased by his parents and his sister, Martha.
As we say goodbye, let's hope we can emulate Ted's ability to listen with compassion and respond to each other with honesty. A gathering will be held after the restrictions are lifted and we can safely be together to share our love of Ted. In lieu of flowers and in remembrance of Ted, please bake a plate of toasted walnut, chocolate chip cookies for a friend, support local businesses by ordering a meal from one of his favorite restaurants, or make a donation to a charity of your choice or perhaps Collabria or Napa Valley Education Foundation.
(Photo from our 50th class reunion.)
|
Scott Leonard
Ted was a friend from the first day of kindergarden. We spent many a day together at eachothers homes as well as up at the Wigger family walnut ranch on Atlas Peak. Wonderful memories of a wonderfully gentle man. Rest in Peace my friend.
Jerry Willett
So sorry to hear of Ted's passing. Thank God I was able to see him at our 50th reunion. I met him while at Ridgeview and he became a very good friend and I always enjoyed seeing and talking to him at our high school reunions. He will be missed.
Rita Gattavara (Traxler)
I was so had when Jana let me know about Ted's passing. My Uncle Wood Grinsell and his parents were very good friends. That was in the day when you could stop by someones house at 5:00pm and have a coctail unannounced! Special times.
When my mom died Ted was their for me to lend comfort and compassion. Heaven has another Angel for sure! Rest in Peace Ted.
George Hoyer
So sorry to hear of Ted's passsing. We met at Napa High and he played the "mad scientist" in a movie I made in eleventh grade. I hadn't seen him since high school and then reconnected when he came to the pre class reunion get together we had for the cast of that movie. He was one of the nicest guys around. Rest in peace, Ted.
Steven Miller
So sorry to hear about Ted, he was the first person of my age to meet and play with. We spent many hours at his house playing. Ted had the best colection of comic books that I have ever seen. His mother always kept apothecary jars of candy in the kitchen. It always felt good to talk with him, that safe feeling you get, like Forest and Jenny had. I will miss you so Ted. Love Carol, your neighbor, friend, school mate, forever.
Beth Bollinger (Quackenbush)
It's with great affection that I remember Ted. He was a heart friend and only classmate I kept in contact with in Napa. His warmth and welcome when visiting were moments I looked forward to and now cherish. A true gentleman. Sad to hear he's gone, will never forget him and truly miss him.
Dolores Rodriguez
Ted was such a warm, good friend. We met in high school and always had great conversations. I was impressed by how kind and friendly he still was so many years later at our 50th class reunion. I feel so sad that such a sweet human being is gone,
Jerry Larghi
Peggy, our family & I are truly deeply saddened by the passing of our dear friend Ted. We send Our Heartfelt Love & Sympathy to his Family. Ted & I go back a long ways, our grandfathers were friends, our fathers were Napa High classmates & friends, as were Ted & I. Ted was perfect in his Family's business, he was so calm & compassionate; he helped us with the process of all our loved ones at their passings- grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins & friends-Ted made it easier for us to bear and his kindness meant everything to us! I remember how Ted & his mother would send a baked ham to our family at those difficult times, that was such a nice caring & comforting gesture. Ted we will always remember your friendship, your smile, your jokes, your compassion, your handshake & your hugs-We will definitely miss You! Rest In Peace Jerry Peggy Joanie Emmalee Cliff Shelley & Zachary Larghi
Robert Jordan
Very sorry to hear of Ted's passing. I remember his warmth and sense of humor. May he rest in peace.
Leslie Rota
As children of the families who owned funeral homes in Napa Ted and I shared a special bond. Through the years we kept in touch. He was such a warm and kind person. We would tease each other about our unusual family histories (his dad hired my dad for his first funeral home job). Little did we both realize I would end up managing my family's business! Rest in peace Ted, I miss knowing you were always there to give me advice.