Salvatore Riggio Md

Salvatore Riggio, M.D. went to be with his Lord on September 8, 2019 .  He was a faithful follower of our Lord and received the  Holy Sacraments before his passing.   Dr. Riggio was born August 28, 1927 in St. Louis, Missouri in his parents’ home on The Italian Hill.     Salvatore was the beloved husband of Geraldine (Gerry) Riggio, née Fiala , Father of James (Kathleen), Nicholas (Lauren), John (Sherry), Mary (Bill), Richard, Maureen (Daniel).  Beloved Grandfather (NaNu) of Joe, Devyn, William, Melissa and Ella.  Great-grandfather, of twins Amelia and Caitlyn.

Salvatore was a faithful son to his father Silvestre and mother Frances.

He grew up on The Hill and attended Christian Brothers  College High School.  After high school Salvatore was accepted into St. Louis University School School of Medicine.  He was then the youngest in his graduating class of 1952, completing his medical degree ahead of schedule.  Dr. Riggio was a pediatrician to many families in the St.  Louis area and faithfully and skillfully served those families during 35 years of private practice. Along with his private practice,  Dr. Riggio served his community in many area Children’s Clinics for decades.  He was on staff at Cardinal Glennon, St. Mary’s and many other area hospitals.  Dr. Riggio would often share with his family that his greatest privilege was helping children and seeing them get better.  Many of the families that Dr. Riggio served continue to reach out and make contact with the Riggio family sharing fond memories of their father.  One of Dr. Riggio’s major accomplishments was that he was among the first of his peers to provide life saving RH transfusions for newborns, which were cutting edge at the time.  Salvatore would tell his grandchildren that’s when he truly felt he was serving the Lord.  Dr. Riggio went on to serve on the Missouri Board of Registration for the Healing Arts in many capacities including President in 1993.  Dr. Riggio proudly served his Country in California as Captain of the U.S. Air Force and Chief of Pediatrics.

Dr. Riggio would tell you though that the highlight of his life, the one love of his life and his rock, was his precious wife Gerry Riggio whom he was married to for over 60 years.   Salvatore Riggio adored his children and was the leader of his family until God called him home.  They will draw on his advice and wisdom as they continue to raise their children.  He loved being surrounded by his family and was happiest when all of his children were together.  He daily encouraged each one in his family and will continue to inspire them going forward. Sal, to the many lives he touched because of you we are better people.  Our lives are better because of you.  We love you Dad.