Damian Rivera was born in Las Marias, Puerto Rico in 1937. Growing up, he worked on his parents’ farm alongside his brothers and sisters. Eventually, he wanted a more financially secure life for his wife, Juana and newborn son Ernesto and decided to relocate to the Bronx in New York. There, his family grew and three additional children were born to the Rivera’s: Damian Rivera, Jr, Evelyn Rivera-Thomas and Joel Rivera. He worked several jobs and eventually was given an opportunity to work in the U.S. Postal Service as a Mail Carrier. He was very proud of his job and worked faithfully as a carrier for over 25 years until his retirement.
It was at Iglesia El Calvario in the Bronx where he committed his life to the Lord. He was a Godly man and a dedicated member of his church. You would often find him playing guitar during service or serving others through the van ministry and other ministries. Whenever the church needed help, he would not hesitate to answer the call! He loved the Lord and lived an exemplary life. As the years went by, he was missing his island and decided to move back to Puerto Rico when he retired. Even in his retirement, he continued to work joyfully for the Lord at Iglesia de Dios MB Betania where he co-pastored with Pastora Evelyn Rosado. There, he continued to glorify God with his guitar and serving others. Damian was a Warrior for Christ! He demonstrated Christ’s love to everyone he met. Even during his recent hospital stay, he would tell the nurses “Christ loves you” despite the pain he was in! We miss him dearly, but we know he is with his Lord and Savior. We envision his excitement at hearing the words, “Well done, My good and faithful servant! You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!”. Matthew 25:21 NLT
Damian loved his family. It brought him great joy to spend time with each one. Even through his last days, he could be heard praying aloud for his family. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Juana, his son Ernesto and wife Gloria, his son Damian and wife Yvette, his daughter Evelyn and husband Tim, and his son Joey and wife Sandra.
He is also survived by his grandchildren and great grandchildren whom he adored:

Jessica and husband Brad - Zoe
Erica and husband Rafael – Eliana & Elias
Ernest – Dalton & Skyleigh, and girlfriend Brittany
Damian III
Andrew- Sahmaja
Nicole and boyfriend Reggie
Elias and wife Samantha - Elianna
Gabriella and husband Alan
Lucas

The Rivera Family would like to thank you for your support and prayers.