Northborough – Andray “Butch” W. Riga, 61, died at home Tuesday, Jan. 1, 2013, surrounded by his loving family, after a long illness.
He leaves his wife of 29 years, Theresa M. Lindberg-Riga; a son, Andray Riga III and his wife Caitlin of North Grafton;? his mother, Angelina Riga of Northborough; a brother, Frank Atchue and his wife Barbara of Southborough; two sisters, Jean Jones of Northborough and Vera Jordan of Norton; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by brothers Robert and William Riga.
Born and raised in Lynn, son of the late Andray W. Riga Sr., he lived many years in Northborough.
Butch worked as a firefighter and E.M.T. in Southborough during the 1970s, and was an E.M.T. at Chaulk Ambulance Service. He was also a self-employed mechanic who owned and operated a mobile oil change business.
Butch owned a 1977 Oldsmobile 442 race car (Split Decision) which he raced in Epping, N.H. and used at charity events. He loved his three Siberian husky dogs, Bandit, Dakota and Mistletoe. He was a drummer for several local rock bands.
His passion in life was cooking, and he loved fishing and camping. Most important in his life was spending time with family and friends.
Calling hours will be held Sunday, Jan.? 6, from 1 to 4 p.m., in Hays Funeral Home, 56 Main St., Northborough. Andray's funeral Mass will be celebrated Monday, Jan. 7, at 10 a.m., in St. Rose of Lima Church, 244 West Main St., Northborough. Burial will follow in Howard Street Cemetery.
Memorial donations may be made to Loki Clan Wolf Refuge at www.lokiclan.org.
For online condolences, please visit www.haysfuneralhome.com.
