James D. "Jim" Reigle

Regal Ware Mourns the Passing of Chairman Emeritus James D. Reigle at Age 99

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – [June 11, 2025] – Regal Ware, Inc. announces with deep sadness the passing of James D. Reigle, Chairman Emeritus, former President, and a guiding force behind the company’s legacy. Jim passed away peacefully on June 7, 2025, in West Bend, Wisconsin at the age of 99, leaving behind a remarkable story of leadership, humility, and service that helped shape not only Regal Ware but the broader housewares industry and his beloved Kewaskum community.

Born April 25, 1926, in Canton, Ohio, Jim often remarked that he had been "blessed by God from the beginning" to be born in the United States— “not perfect,” he wrote, “but always open to improvement.” He carried those values of resilience, humility, and personal responsibility throughout his life.

Jim served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II and later graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Commerce. In 1949, he joined the business founded by his father, J.O. Reigle. Then known as the Kewaskum Utensil Company, it was renamed Regal Ware in 1951. Jim began humbly—unloading trucks and sorting mail—and quickly rose through the ranks, eventually becoming President in 1965 and then Chairman of the Board.

Under his leadership, Regal Ware expanded globally, modernized its operations, and became a symbol of American-made quality and family values. He believed deeply in Regal Ware’s mission to bring families together through meaningful mealtime experiences.

“Jim was more than a business leader—he was a steward of values that continue to define our company today,” said Ryan Reigle, CEO and Chairman of the Board of Regal Ware and Jim’s grandson. “He believed in doing things the right way—with care, humility, and a long-term vision rooted in people and purpose. His legacy lives on in everything we do.”

Jim also contributed significantly to the housewares industry, serving as President and Director of both the National Housewares Manufacturers Association and the Cookware Manufacturers Association. He was a champion for American manufacturers, advocating for legislative improvements and higher industry standards.

Beyond business, Jim was a passionate civic servant. He served as village president of Kewaskum for nine years, held board seats with GTE North and Dairyland Seed, and was a long-time member of the American Legion and Kiwanis Club of Kewaskum. He often said that the foundation of his life was based on the Golden Rule—tempered by Abraham Lincoln’s belief in “the greatest need for the greatest number.”

“My father was a quiet yet powerful leader who always prioritized people,” said Doug Reigle, Jim’s son and a former Regal Ware executive. “He led with strength and humility, and instilled in all of us the belief that success is measured by impact, not just profit. Regal Ware’s heart and soul reflect his vision.”

In retirement, Jim and his wife Patricia represented Regal Ware in a joint venture in England, and later enjoyed a peaceful chapter at Cedar Community in West Bend. Patricia passed away in 2022 after 75 years of marriage—Jim described their life together as one of his greatest blessings.

His closing words in the obituary he penned himself read: “If anyone has read all of this, you must be a relative or close friend—may God bless you as He has me in my life.”

Jim Reigle’s leadership, generosity, and values continue to live on through the company, the family he loved so deeply, and the community he helped shape.

Visitation: 10:00 AM, Monday, June 16 Peace United Church of Christ, Kewaskum, WI

Funeral Service: 11:00 AM, Monday, June 16 Peace United Church of Christ, Kewaskum, WI

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: Lakeshore Community Health Care, West Bend, WI or Peace United Church of Christ, Kewaskum, WI