In Loving Memory of Hector L. Rivera 5/15/42- 7/5/23

It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Hector L. Rivera, a beloved husband, father, patriarch, loyal friend, and a dedicated soldier who proudly served in the United States Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. Hector embodied the true essence of selflessness and sacrifice, and his memory will forever be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him.

Born on May 15, 1942, in Utuado, Puerto Rico, Hector L. Rivera grew up with a deep appreciation for family and hard work. Emigrating to Lorain, Ohio at a young age, Hector’s family was one of over 200 families who came to Lorain, Ohio to build a life and support other families moving from Puerto Rico pursuing employment at the US Steele Mill. Their community became one of the most vibrant and prosperous Puerto Rican Hispanic neighborhoods in Lorain. Hector’s father was a contributor to the neighborhood’s growth and a small infrastructure known as Campito. Hector took immense pride in his family’s heritage and being part of the first generation of Puerto Ricans to call Lorain County home.

After attending Lorain High School, Hector answered the call of duty and enlisted in the military at a young age. He served with distinction as a Green Beret in the US Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, demonstrating unwavering commitment to defending the freedoms we hold dear, as evidenced by his deployment during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, Hector built a successful career as a manager at Ford Motor Company in Brook Park, Ohio. He was not only a supervisor but also a mentor and friend to those fortunate enough to work alongside him. Hector genuinely cared for the well-being and professional growth of his team members. His leadership style was characterized by fairness and a relentless drive for continuous quality improvement at Plant 1.

Hector’s guidance and support played a significant role in the personal and professional development of many individuals within the company, fostering lifelong friendships along the way. Hector was known for his “spicy” and direct personality, unafraid of transparency. Yet, those who knew him deeply recognized his strong caregiving nature and unwavering compassion. Hector had a distinctive and remarkable talent in the art of gunsmithing and cultivated a deep passion for power boating on the serene waters of Lake Erie. Hector was also renowned for his expertise in the culinary realm, particularly his mastery in the art of pig roasting and catering. While one of his proudest achievements was his service in the US Army, Hector found immense joy in witnessing his children’s accomplishments and the growth of his beloved family.

Beyond his professional and military achievements, Hector L. Rivera was a cherished family member and friend. He will be deeply missed by his wife of 53 years, Milagrosa Rivera, his children Michelle Rivera, Donna Rivera-Wells and husband Jamie Wells, Rochelle Thornburg and husband Jeremy Thornburg, Hector Rivera, his seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and his siblings Widia Gonzalez, Nilsa Orama, Miriam Rivera-Covert, Jose (Pepe) Rivera, Carmen Rivera, Albert (Ally) Rivera, and Doris Rivera-Cabrera. Hector leaves behind a legacy built on family, courage, and compassion that will continue to inspire all who were touched by his presence. He was preceded in death by Obdulio Gonzalez Rivera (father), Eloina Rios Rivera (mother), and Wilfred (Wfi) Diaz (sister).

Hector is a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Tampa Bay All Airborne Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association, the VFW, and American Legion 138. On Monday, July 10, 2023, a Catholic mass will be held in his honor at 10:00 am at St. Catherine’s Siena Catholic Church- 1955 S. Belcher Rd, Clearwater, Florida 33764. The family will be receiving guests from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at Veteran’s Funeral Care- 830 N Belcher Rd., Clearwater, Florida 33765, to commemorate and honor the remarkable life of Hector L. Rivera.

At 1:00 pm, the United States Army will render tribute to Hector L. Rivera at the funeral home by conducting Military Honors. If anyone desires to make memorial contributions in honor of Hector L. Rivera, they can donate to the Tampa Bay All Airborne Chapter of the 82nd Airborne Division Association. http://www.tbaac.com/donate