Michael F. "Jiggs" Giglio Jr.

December 10, 1942 ~ January 27, 2022
Born in:
Pueblo, Colorado
Resided in:
Pueblo, Colorado
Service for Mike F. “Jiggs” Giglio
Mike F. “Jiggs” Giglio, Jr
December 10, 1942-January 27, 2022
Reminiscent of his life, Jiggs passed away with a smile on his face, laugh lines around his eyes, and family by his side. He departed this earth after 79 years in his hometown of Pueblo, Colorado. Jiggs worked at CF&I Steel for 27 years in various departments as a Clerk but was most proud of the legacy he leaves behind in local sports. As a young man, Jiggs played stick ball while living on Union Avenue, only to become a great ball player where he thrived as a pitcher and shortstop. Following his graduation from Pueblo Catholic High School in 1960, he was scouted by the minor leagues but a career as a professional baseball player wasn’t meant to be. He would continue to play softball as an adult while raising his family at a young age. Always a positive, caring, and generous man to the less fortunate, Jiggs would dress up as Snoopy and he and his friends would deliver presents to developmentally disabled children for many holidays.
Besides being an avid sports enthusiast, Jiggs loved the adrenaline rush he’d get from sports betting. He loved to “bet” whenever life presented a “this or that” outcome. That passion was obvious when he was at the poker table. He was a longtime member of the Fraternal Order of Eagles and an avid Texas Hold ‘Em player for more than 60 years. His competitiveness turned light-hearted when playing poker alongside both friends and other players. You were a stranger only once in Jiggs’ eyes!
While he loved to have fun and joke around with everyone, it was being with his family that meant most to him and made him the happiest. He loved spending time at his home with his dogs and loving wife.
Jiggs was preceded in death by his parents, Mike F. Giglio, Sr. and Anna (Rose) Giglio; and sister, Nancy Spinuzzi. He is survived by his wife and partner of 42 years, Valerie (Shomaker) Giglio. He was most proud of his children, Mike T. Giglio (Herb Quintana), Dena (Cory) Giglio- Vetta, and Brett Giglio, aka “Little Jiggs” who was his best friend due to their many shared interests; and his granddaughter, Bella Vetta, who brought him immense joy. Also survived by sisters, Rose Giglio-Janni and Clara Colletti. He adored his extended family of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews and always maintained a friendship with his former wife and friend, Delores Giglio.
The family will honor Jiggs’ wishes and provide a true Celebration of Life on Saturday, February 5, 2022, at his favorite poker venue, the Steel City Eagles Social Club, 704 Elmhurst Place, Pueblo. Come dressed for fun and celebration! Tribute begins at 11am and reception immediately follows.
Many thanks to Encompass Home Health for their continued support and compassion. Jiggs would like to reciprocate what was given to him during his childhood years of baseball. An account “Jiggs for Kids” is being set up and any donations will go towards youth sports organizations to buy sports equipment for disadvantaged youth in the Pueblo area. Online condolences, www.MontgomerySteward.com
Services
Life Celebration: February 5, 2022 11:00 am
Steel City Eagles #3367
704 Elmhurst Place
Pueblo, CO 81004
719-564-3695
I met Jiggs in 1978, when he visited the Chicago area with my cousin, Chip Regal. We became friends from the first handshake. Although over 1,000 miles separated us, anytime one of us called the other, I was greeted with: Hey, son. Or: Ricardo! I know if we lived in the same town we would have been best friends. I sure am going to miss Jiggs. What a great guy and friend. My condolences go out to Valerie & Brett. Thank you for including me – Rick
I really enjoyed playing poker with Jiggs
Mike and Dena,
Sorry to hear of the passing of your father. My deepest sympathy to you. Keep his memories in your heart forever.