Rowland John Riglin
November 8, 1956 - September 2, 2025
It is with deep sadness we announce that on 02 September 2025, Rowland ended his 10 year struggle with Multiple System Atrophy. He passed away peacefully at Hastings Manor in Belleville Ontario on his own terms, surrounded by his loved ones.
Rowland was predeceased by his parents, Frank and Nina (nee Parsons) Riglin. He is survived by his wife, Catherine Ambrose, his siblings, Kerry (Heather) Riglin, Birdie (David) Davidchuk, and Glenda (Lori) Riglin, his children Hagan (Natalie) Riglin and Noemie (Andrew) Gosselin, his step-children Kevin (Mackenzie) Gamble and Lauren (Jordan) Galpin, and his grandchildren Christian, Hazel, Audric, Paxton, Esme and Atticus, all whom he loved dearly. He is also survived by nephews Cory, Chad, Jayson and Lee.
Born and raised in Eston Sask, Rowland’s early adult life saw him travel, work in Quebec and then Saskatchewan where he trained and became a Hydro Lineman. He secured a position with Hydro Ottawa where he settled to raise his family. In 2015 his disease forced him into early retirement. Rowland loved his job and was loved and well-respected by his co-workers. He often commented that the most rewarding time in his career was during the great ice storm of 1998. Although the hours were long and the conditions difficult, when he could knock on a door and tell someone that power had been restored to their home, the look of relief and gratitude on their faces warmed his heart and gave him great satisfaction.
Rowland was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed canoeing and camping. His involvement in the Scouting program in Ottawa gifted him the opportunity to pass on valuable skills and lessons to the youth in the program, many of whom remained in contact with him. In addition to these interests, he was involved in the community in many quiet and unassuming ways, quick to help neighbours and strangers alike if and when there was a need. He was an enthusiastic Harley rider which led him to join a local Harley riding group where he became involved and was one of the pivotal organizers of the Ride for Dad in the Ottawa area. He remained active with the Ride for Dad until his disease caused him to step down from his commitments.
Rowland was a man of character and of his word, a man who loved fiercely. He lived his life marching to the beat of his own drum, leaving this world the same way. During the past decade, he endured his disease with grace and dignity, always putting the needs of his loved ones and his caregivers before himself.
Rowland did not just try life or survive it, he lived it standing inside the fire, and he did so with grace that only those who have walked a similar path could hope to understand.
He was a giant of a man whose passing has been felt in equal proportion. The grief that is felt by those who knew and loved him is quelled in a small way by knowing his struggle is over. The void left by his passing will forever be felt.
We will miss you Rowland and trust that you rest in peace…..you have earned it!