Karson Michael Riggs

Our precious sweet little boy, Karson, was welcomed home into the loving arms of our Savior on Jan. 13, 2011. For almost three years Karson quietly but bravely endured the progression of Spinal Muscular Atrophy Type I, a progressive neuromuscular disorder.

Karson was born April 12, 2008 to Darren and Jody and big sister, Hadley. From day one, Karson was quick to smile and laugh and slow to complain and whine. Everyday Karson had to go through a lot just to survive and he faced it with immense patience and tolerance. Although Karson was unable to speak, his big blue eyes said more than words ever could. Karson loved life and he enjoyed simple pleasures: being sung to, clapping his hands (with help), being outside, seeing lights and stars, riding in the car, throwing his football with his daddy’s help and above all watching his movies. Karson loved many movies but none more than his beloved Toy Story. Because of Karson’s illness he was unable to move at all. But we often joked that he, like Woody and Buzz, would come to life and run around when we weren’t there. Although his life was full of little joys, what he loved most of all was his family. Karson loved his mommy. Even though she was his main caregiver and did all of his treatments, that he hated, he looked at her with pure love in his eyes. He could be having a rough day or not feeling the best and then he would see his sister and his face would light up. Although his time on earth was small there are none that met Karson that were not touched by his sweet sprit.

Karson is survived by his parents Darren and Jody, big sister Hadley, grandparents Mike and Mary Nay and ValDean and Marie Riggs, as well as five great-grandparents and many aunts, uncles, cousins and other family members and friends.

We would like to offer our most sincere gratitude to Dr. Kathryn Swoboda and her two nurses Abby Smart and Whit Coleman, Dr. Ann Baranko, CNS home health, Ivy Lane Home Health, as well as many of the staff at Primary Children’s Medical Center. All of whom made Karson’s life possible in the face of adversity.

A celebration of Karson’s life will begin at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 19 at the Hooper 3rd ward, 5601 S 6100. There will be a viewing held at Lindquist Mortuary, 3333 W 5600 in Roy, on Tuesday evening from 6 - 8 p.m. as well as Wednesday morning at the ward from 9:45-10:45. Karson we love you so much and are so thankful for you, right now our hearts are broken but we look forward to our “INFINITY AND BEYOND” with each other.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Karson Riggs Charitable Fund at America First Credit Union.