John Byron Wigle
John Byron Wigle, 68, who will be remembered for his love of family and travel, playful sense of humor, unwavering integrity, strong leadership and dedication to community service, passed away surrounded by family and friends on June 24, 2018 after a courageous battle with cancer. Special thanks to everyone who loved and cared for John during this time, especially his lifelong friend Bob Boas.
John was raised in Pacific Palisades, California, where he was infamous for great adventures with his childhood best friends. After spending some time in Chicago, John moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1976. He joined the family business, AGIA, eventually becoming President and CEO. At the time of his death, he was AGIA’s Chief Strategy Officer and Chairman.
Professionally, John was a charter member of the Professional Insurance Marketing Association, as well as a past board member. In the community, John was a member and chairman of the United Way Board of Directors and also served on United Way Strategic Revenue Committee. He was also secretary of the Santa Barbara chapter of the World’s President Organization.
Big Sur, Cambria, Ojai, Spain and Maui — where he loved spending time with family and friends — all held a special place in John’s heart.
John is survived by his wife and the love of his life Virginia Benson Wigle, stepdaughter Ella Carleton, his children and grandchildren: Nicholas Wigle (Rachel) and granddaughter Sarah; Breanna Hunt; Katherine Wigle; and James Wigle (Alyssa) and granddaughter Makenzy from his marriage to Kathleen Wigle. As well as his sister Isabel Wigle Mullin and four nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his brother James H. Wigle and parents Virgina H. Wigle and James B. Wigle.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in John’s name to the Aveni Foundation / Sarcoma Oncology Research Center, 2811 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 414 Santa Monica, CA 90403, Domestic Violence Solutions for Santa Barbara County, P.O. Box 1536, Santa Barbara, CA 93102, or CASA of Santa Barbara County, 118 East Figueroa Street Santa Barbara, CA 93101. Details for John’s Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date.