Joel Amos Rigter, 88,  passed away peacefully at his home on  Wednesday, September 28, 2022. He was born in Kamrar, IA to Joe and Jessie Koop Rigter on March 28, 1934. He was first married to Joan Wills Rigter for 60 years, prior to her death in 2016. Together they enjoyed many years of travel and RVing after retiring from their business they built together, Charleston Waterbeds. In 2017, Joel married a longtime friend and classmate, Beverly Black Rigter. They enjoyed travel and being active residents of Franke Home at Seaside.    

Mr. Rigter enlisted in the U.S. Navy shortly after high school and served for four years. After a brief tour in submarines, he was assigned to the USS William Seiverling, DE 441, attaining the rank of Machinist Mate 2nd Class, and earning the Korean Service Medal. Forming a lifelong bond with the crew, for many years he attended or hosted USS William Seiverling Ship's Reunions. Mr. Rigter was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Joel is survived by his wife, Beverly and his two children, son, Joe Rigter (Kay) and daughter Jill Ewell (Greg) all of Mt Pleasant, SC. His four granddaughters, whom he adored, Emily Ewell (Luis Antonio Arruda) of Brazil, Ashley Rigter Mayer (Jon) of Mt Pleasant, Ellen Ewell of Akron, OH and Sarah Rigter Jacobs (Reed) of Greenville, SC. His four great grandchildren, that always knew he'd have a sucker for them, Alice Arruda, Emma and Wes Mayer and Ladd Jacobs. 

Joel was a true entrepreneur and keen businessman. His achievements are true examples of the great American Dream. In all his business dealings, it was often said that he was always more than fair and generous. The family would like to express their profound appreciation to all at Franke of Seaside, especially Mona, his caregivers Sebrina, Monique, Pat and Carolyn, and to Hospice who made his last days peaceful.   

To honor our father, a memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 8, 2022 at St. John's Lutheran Church, 5 Clifford Street, Charleston, SC at 2:00 pm. Arrangements by J. Henry Stuhr, Inc., Mt. Pleasant Chapel.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lutheran Hospice of the Lowcountry, www.lutheranhospice.org, 1885 Rifle Range Rd #46, Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464.