Anthony J. "Tony" Rigali

Anthony Joseph “Tony” Rigali passed away on November 3, 2023 after a long, courageous battle with complications from health issues related to polycystic kidney disease.   

Tony was predeceased by his parents, Walter and Elaine "Sis" Rigali, his brother's James Rigali, David Rigali & his sister, Kathleen Rigali. Tony leaves his children, Mia & Anthony & his life partner, Laura Waller.  He is survived by his siblings, Christine Rigali (Milan), Debbie Torretti (Dominic), Michael Rigali, Peter Rigali (Joann), Gina Shawl (Fayaz), Paula Rigali-O'Connor (Tracie) & many nieces and nephews.  

Born & raised in Holyoke, Tony graduated from Holyoke High School in 1980.  He made lifelong friendships growing up in Holyoke & was known as one of the Crosier Field Crew.  Tony worked in the family business, El-Wal Trucking, from a young age & went on to be co-owner of the business after his dad passed away. Tony and his sister, Paula, were co-owners of Rigali's Highland Lunch, a restaurant that Tony was very proud to start in Holyoke. Tony's love of the Rolling Stones took him on many trips with friends & his brother Peter to many of their concerts. Tony always enjoyed deep sea fishing in Rhode Island with his Holyoke buddies. 

Tony lived in Indiana for several years with his family and Laura’s parents, Dan and Judy Waller, who he cherished. Family was very important to Tony.  He was most proud of & loved his children with all of his heart.  He was proud of being their Dad each and every day and loved watching them grow. One of Tony's rituals was visiting with his mom every day & having a coffee & a good conversation with a friend or a sibling who may have stopped by.

Tony’s family would like to thank the doctors & nurses at Baystate Medical Center Emergency Department & ICU; especially ICU nurses, Lorna and Linda, who took excellent care of Tony & treated him with kindness & dignity.

A Funeral Home Service will be held on Saturday, November 11th, 2023 at 10:00am in the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton St. Burial will follow in Island Pond Cemetery in Ludlow.  Calling hours will be held on Friday, November 10th from 4:00 to 7:00pm at the Barry J. Farrell Funeral Home, 2049 Northampton Street, Holyoke.

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