At 73, John Rigler never imagined he would be walking across a stage in a cap and gown, surrounded by students decades younger than him. But in May of this year, Rigler became Norco College’s oldest graduate of his class, fulfilling a dream that had been years in the making.
John's journey to higher education was anything but conventional. He dropped out of high school at just 16 to join the Marine Corps during the Vietnam War era. His time in the military was spent training Marines for war, teaching them to operate the complex fire control systems of F4B fighters. While he never deployed, John carried the weight of knowing that many of the men he trained didn’t make it back.
When he left the Marine Corps after four years of service, he found himself in a whirlwind of different jobs across the country. From plowing fields in Ohio to becoming a manager at high-end car dealerships like Mercedes-Benz, John worked hard, constantly moving forward but never quite settled. It wasn’t until much later in life, after raising two daughters and starting a second family, that he felt a void. He watched as his daughters, both successful in their careers pursued higher education. His youngest daughter earner her BA and is an Executive for Irvine Company she accomplished what he had long put aside: education.
It was his daughters’ achievements that sparked a desire in John to go back to school. “I saw my girls get their degrees, and here I was, the dad who worked every job under the sun,” he said. “I felt like I owed it to myself to do this.”
John enrolled in Norco College, one of the colleges in the Riverside Community College District. Despite being decades older than his classmates, John felt at home. His life experience and military background gave him a unique perspective on education. He quickly became a standout student, not because of his age, but because of his dedication.
“I see so many kids in my classes who don’t understand what a privilege it is to be here,” John said. “They’re on their phones during lectures or complaining about assignments. I want them to know that if it weren’t for people like those who served, they wouldn’t even have the freedom to sit in a classroom.”
John’s presence was felt both in and out of the classroom. His professors, especially Dr. Thomas, who taught construction engineering, became his mentors and supporters. “The teachers here are some of the best I’ve ever had,” he said. “They’re passionate, they’re patient, and they care about their students. That’s why this place is so special.”
John didn’t stop at getting his degree. He became a community advocate, leading groups like Veterans Serving Veterans at Grace Fellowship Church. He also took on leadership roles in local nonprofits, supporting agricultural traditions and raising funds for local causes. His commitment to service never waned, even as he dealt with personal health challenges, including colon cancer and knee replacement surgery. “I’ve been through a lot,” John admitted, “but I just keep moving forward. That’s what life’s about.”
On graduation day, when it was announced that the oldest graduate was 73, John’s family, watching the ceremony in-person and online, erupted with pride. It was a moment of triumph not just for John, but for everyone who had supported him along the way—his wife, his daughters, and his beloved black lab, Bear, who never left his side during long study sessions.
Now, as John considers his next steps, he’s filled with gratitude for the journey he’s taken. “I don’t know what’s next,” he said with a laugh. “Maybe I’ll go for my bachelor’s, maybe I’ll get more involved in helping veterans. But whatever it is, I’ll be ready.”
John Rigler’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and the belief that it’s never too late to chase your dreams. His journey reminds us that age is just a number and that the desire to learn, grow, and serve others knows no limits.