Rigginses have long history of giving back to their community

By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

Jack Riggin has lived in rural Burdick for almost all of his life.

He was born in Lost Springs. He met Nancy, his wife of 40 years, when she was visiting her sister in Herington. She was from Goodland.

They are active in Burdick United Methodist Church. Jack served on the Burdick Council of Clubs and is a member of Burdick’s American Legion post.

Nancy worked 20 years in Burdick’s post office, including 14 years as postmaster. She was forced into retirement when the postmaster position was eliminated seven years ago. The post office has since been closed.

Nancy has made and sold jewelry for 20 years.

Jack buys young calves, grows them to feeder size, and sells them. He and Nancy both ride horses to check the cattle and move them from pasture to pasture.

“Some people use four-wheelers, but we like to use horses because they work well in muddy conditions,” Jack said.

Custom operators farm his ground and put up feed. He buys hay.

At age 76, Jack is happy to be living an active life on the farm.

“I’m glad I can still get out and do some things,” he said.

The couple have three children — Betsy Miller, Jake Tindle, and Kelly Buchanan, seven grandchildren, and one grandchild.

“We’ve been blessed,” Jack said. “Everybody here is family oriented and neighbors help neighbors. There aren’t too many anymore, but I’m thankful for the younger people who can help us when we need it.”

Nancy agreed.

“It’s a nice community and a good place to raise a family,” she said.

They are looking forward to the holiday weekend, when their family will come home for the annual Labor Day celebration.