John William Harrelson, a legendary fixture in Claremont’s music scene, died on June 26, 2013 in Upland, California. He was 62.
Mr. Harrelson was born on September 28, 1950 in Gadsden, Alabama to Doris Elizabeth Harrelson (Martin) and John Pershing Harrelson. He spent his first years in surroundings marked by his father’s pecan orchards, creeks perfect for fishing and the occasional passage of trains on the Louisville & Nashville Railroad.
Before long, Mr. Harrelson’s father found work in the Kaiser Steel mill in Fontana and the family packed up and moved to southern California.
Michael Riggio, known among family and friends as Mickey, died peacefully in his sleep on April 24, 2013 after recurrence and complications from cancer. He was 76.
Mr. Riggio, a 34-year resident of Claremont, died with dignity and courage, family shared. His loving wife was at his side and his daughter, son and daughter-in-law were with him only moments before.
The son of Sicilian immigrants Giacomo and Sarafina Riggio, he was born in 1937 in Detroit, Michigan, then moved with his family to California in 1946. As a young boy, he worked in packing houses in Pico Rivera.
Friends and acquaintances of the late “Connie” Casler, who died recently at the age of 83, are all invited to attend a gathering in his honor on Friday, May 10 at 2 p.m. at the Sanctuary for Spiritual Living church at 5446 N. Citrus Ave. in Covina (an approximate one-half mile south of the 210 Freeway).
Following a service in honor of the longtime journalist and Claremont resident, participants will take part in a potluck meal. All are welcome.
Additional information is available from the Rev. Kris Collins at the church at (626) 332-6838 or from Carol Bliss at 445-0645.
