Peter John Rigby

On the 13th April Peter John Rigby of The Firs, Aldborough, England died suddenly from heart failure whilst visiting family in Nashville, Tennessee in the United States, a country he loved and admired.

Born in 1940 in Leeds to John and Adelaide Rigby, he grew up in West Yorkshire, attending prep school in the Lake District where he developed his deep love of the countryside, before attending Oundle and latterly Millfield School where he thrived in all aspects of school life.

His relaxation was found in walking the hills and coastal pathways of the English countryside, along with being a keen gardener and amateur historian. With a long family history in the wire manufacturing industry, he had a successful 40-year career building and managing the UK's leading stainless steel wire company.  Towards the end of his life he attained the position of Master Liveryman of The Worshipful Company of Tin Plate Workers alias Wire Workers of the City of London, working hard to grow the organisation and deepen its relevancy to industry.

Always loyal and loving to his friends and family, his sense of civic duty was fearless and strong, never afraid to stand up to and lead the challenge against organisations, government or business, where he saw obfuscation or dishonesty.  He loved life and had boundless enthusiasm, using any excuse to throw parties, holding the room with fascinating anecdotes and discussing the politics of the day.

Pete was kind and generous and his legacy will be one of embracing the moment and enjoying life.  He is survived by his wife Sue, daughter Clare, son Jonathan and his four granddaughters Emily, Freya, Boo and Cecily.