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People often ask who or what Rigels is named after. Rigels Inc. is named after the USS Rigel (AR-11), which founder Tom Gotschall had served on during World War II. The USS Rigel was commissioned on February 24, 1922 as a destroyer tender. It was named for Rigel, the brightest star in the constellation Orion. It was redesignated a bae-repair ship on April 10, 1941. The Rigel was in Pearl Harbor, HI on December 7th, 1941 and sustained damage from the attack. In December of 1941 the Rigel was assigned to the Asiatic-Pacific Theater of war and served there until the end of World War II. The Rigel earned four battle stars during the war and was decommissioned on July 11, 1946.
How It All Started
Our History
Rigels Refrigeration Service Inc. was founded in November of 1945 by Frank Grossman and Tom Gotschall. The business was primarily a refrigeration service business for bars, restaurants, and grocery stores. In 1947 Nick Matthees bought Rigels Refrigeration Service Inc. After the end of World War II manufacturers began to produce electrical household appliances and refrigerators and freezers became very popular. Rigels quickly began to service and sell these new popular household appliances, namely refrigerators, freezers, clothes washers, and dryers.
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Beginning to End
We are a factory authorized repair center for virtually every appliance product we sell.
Learn MoreLet our delivery experts do all of the work of setting up and installing your new free standing appliances.
Learn MoreOur experienced installers are experts and will install your dishwasher, microwave, wall oven, and much more.
Learn MoreRigels provides financing through a third party. For current financing options and rates please call one of our sales associates.
Learn MoreRigels is your one stop shop for any parts or accessory needs. From water filters to motor couplers we have a huge selection of parts on hand to help you tackle any appliance project.
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Special Pricing
Whether you’re a designer, builder or architect, we offer you special pricing on Minnesota’s largest selection of named brand appliances.
