Obituaries

Obituary: Former Highland Park High School Coach

James J. "Coach Rig" Righeimer, who coached football, wrestling and track at Highland Park High School for about 20 years, died on March 19. He was 80 years old.

The information below comes from Donnellan Funeral.

James J. “Coach Rig” Righeimer, who coached football, wrestling and track at Highland Park High School for about 20 years, died on March 19. He was 80 years old.

Righeimer, of Lincolnshire was a coach and teacher in Chicago and the North Shore for over 45 years.

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Beloved husband of the late Therese Kathleen nee Redican; loving dad of Mary Ellen (Tom) Rucks, Jim (Lene), Brian (Vicki), Laura (Chris) Janssen and Jeannie (Doug) Balsam; cherished "Poppy" of Brianne Rucks (Jason) Van Hemert, Chris (Nikki) and Alex Rucks, angel Rebecca Grace, Morgan, Ellie and Katherine Righeimer, Stephanie, Angela, Vanessa and Austin Righeimer, Christian, Quinn and Tynan Janssen, Mira, Petrea and Alexa Balsam; great-grandfather of Celia and Elise Van Hemert and Lyla Rucks; dear uncle of many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his parents Mary and Harry Righeimer, brother Jack Righeimer and sister Kay Breslin. 

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