Michael C. Wiggins

Michael Clarence Wiggins, 77, of Venice, Florida, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 24th, 2026 at home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on July 21, 1948, in Steubenville, Ohio to Clarence and Anne Wiggins. Through his early life experiences, he continually pushed himself to grow, achieve and overcome challenges.

Michael graduated from “Big Red” Steubenville High School in Steubenville, Ohio in 1966 and went on to Franciscan University of Steubenville where he earned B.S in Business Administration and later his P.M.D. from Harvard School of Business. He was honored to receive the Alumni Achievement Award at Franciscan and serve on their Board of Directors. Michael started his extraordinary career at the Kobacker Company where we worked his way up from Vice President of Distribution to Senior Vice President of the Fashion Division. He moved on to be President of Patrini Shoes, Endicott Johnson Corporation, and L & M Comfort Footwear, Inc. He will be remembered for his dedication, strong, work ethic, and determination to succeed. He embraced challenges wholeheartedly and inspired others through his perseverance and drive.

Michael married Louise in 2003 and together they loved to travel and visit their 13 grandchildren. He loved attending, coaching and mentoring all the grandchildren’s sporting events. He lived life fully and passionately, finding joy in traveling, gardening, and spending time with family, friends and neighbors. He loved bourbon, Keeneland horse racing, Ohio State Football, bocce ball, playing cards, and happy hours shared with neighbors and friends. He especially enjoyed watering neighbors’ flowers and creating beauty around him through gardening. He also has a deep appreciation for the arts, particularly the symphony and opera. His enthusiasm for life, love of conversation and the ability to bring people together will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 23 years Louise: Re’An (Jack) Geis of Roswell, Georgia, Heather (Andrew) Ford of Bethesda, Maryland and Moreen (Dave) Nienaber of Fort Wright, Kentucky; Bryan (Connie)Weber of Centreville, Virginia, Adrienne (Rolando) Arrieta of Washington, District of Columbia and Mark (Paulina)Weber of Park Ridge, New Jersey; 13 grandchildren, Julia and Jackson Geis, Ada Ford, Ella, Luke, Nick, Anna, Caroline Nienaber, Diego & Lucas Arrieta, Ian & Ben Weber and Luna Weber. He is also survived by many dear cousins and former wife, Helen. Michael was preceded in death by his parents Clarence and Anne Wiggins and his brother John Wiggins.

He will be remembered as a loving husband, an incredible father and a playful, proud Pap Pap. He was always willing to talk strategy, go out for ice cream or make cookies or Buckeyes for grandkids. Michael will be deeply missed and forever remembered by his family, friends, colleagues and all who were fortunate enough to know him.

A celebration of life in honor of Michael will be planned for local friends and family on May 31st from 1-3 pm at Venetian Falls Club House, 2001 Batello Drive, Venice, Florida 34292.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Venice Symphony of Venice Florida at www.thevenicesymphony.org

The family wishes to thank the staff of Sarasota Memorial Hospital and Tidewell Hospice for their care and support.

Arrangements are entrusted to Farley Funeral Home, Venice, FL.