John Biggar III cause of death: Former Tournament of Roses President and prominent Pasadena businessman dies at 90

Former Tournament of Roses President John Hall Biggar III died earlier this week due to a long illness. He was 90.

Fondly called Jack Biggar by his close pals and associates, John Hall Biggar III served as the president of JH Biggar Furniture Co. that operated a store on the southeast corner of Colorado Boulevard and El Molino Avenues for several years.

John Hall Biggar III, who was born and raised in Pasadena, graduated from Blair High School and later became the president of the Tournament of Roses during the centennial Rose Bowl Game and the 75th Tournament of Roses Parade.

At the time, Jack Biggar dubbed the 100th game as an “enormous challenge to live up to.” He added:

“The enthusiasm around the country for our parade and Rose Bowl game is something you don’t get into your bones until you travel around to these little towns, the ones we have invited to take part. They just know it is the best event on New Year’s Day, the granddaddy of them all. Just say ‘Pasadena’ to someone out of state, and the first thing they talk about is the parade and game.”

In a statement to Pasadena Now, 2023 Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association President Amy Wainscott paid tribute to John Hall Biggar III, saying:

“The Pasadena Tournament of Roses family mourns the loss of Past President Jack Biggar. Jack dedicated his life to volunteering in the community and serving others. With all the organizations he served, we appreciate the endless hours that he gave the Association. We remember fondly that he presided as President of the 100th Rose Parade and remained a loyal Member. On behalf of the 935 volunteer Members and professional staff, we extend our condolences to the entire Biggar family during this time of grief.”

John Hall Biggar III is survived by his wife Karol Biggar, his brother Richard, children Lynne Biggar and Mike Biggar, grandchildren Matt and Kelsey, and stepchildren Bob Hezlep and Susan King.

The family is requesting donations in Jack Biggar’s honor be made to the Pasadena Tournament of Roses or the Laguna Niguel Presbyterian Church in lieu of flowers.