Benjamin P. Rivera

Ben passed away far too soon, but he enjoyed a full life’s worth of close relationships, admirable achievements, and memorable adventures. Our Ben would want the many who loved him to know how very much he also loved them. He cherished decisions to attend St. Johns Prep and Vanderbilt University, primarily because he treasured the friendships with students and faculty that grew out of them. He was also grateful to intern for two summers at The Home Depot Headquarters in Atlanta. His most recent venture took him to Falls Church, Virginia, where he began his software engineering career with Capital One. In each place he gathered a circle of meaningful friends and enjoyed sharing time together working through intellectual challenges and at times, just being silly.

Our Ben was a thoughtful, intelligent, compassionate, reflective, young man. He was greatly loved and adored by family and friends. His easy temperament enabled him to gather and nurture countless deep connections. His gracious intellect taught and inspired all who knew him and enriched their lives. Those who were touched by him will miss his unconditional acceptance, inquisitive wisdom, and gentle smile.

On the surface Ben was thriving, happy, and successful, but secretly and silently he struggled with depression. Devastating to those around him, he took his life to ease his pain. We hope and pray for an end to his inner sadness and that his beautiful soul is at peace.

Ben leaves in sorrow his parents, Dr. Jaime and Debbie Rivera, and sisters whom he adored, Mali and Becky. Also heartbroken are his loving grandparents Jaime and Carmen Rivera of California and Bill and Jane Booras of Lynnfield, as well as many adoring aunts, uncles, and cousins.

All of us will always cherish each personal memory with Ben and forever carry a piece of his precious soul.

Visiting hours will be held at Eustis and Cornell of Marblehead, 142 Elm Street on Tuesday, April 2 from 4-8PM. Ben’s funeral Mass will be celebrated at Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, 85 Atlantic Avenue, Marblehead on Wednesday, April 3 at 10AM followed by burial in Star of the Sea Cemetery, Marblehead. In lieu of flowers donations to aid those afflicted with depression may be sent to: The Ben Rivera “Find Your Wings” Foundation ℅ Demakis Law Offices, 56 Central Avenue, Suite 201, Lynn, MA 01901.