Martin B. Rivera

McAllen- Martin Rivera passed away on Feb 14, 2024. He passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his beloved family. Martin was born in Mexico in 1931. He married the love of his life, Ceferina (Cefe) at 21. They immigrated to the US shortly thereafter, where he was a dedicated employee at Reynold’s Research and Manufacturing for 50 years.

He bought his first home in 1965 where he and his wife raised nine children. It was a happy home where visitors were always welcome and laughter could always be heard. Martin and Cefe were always happy to provide a meal and a helping hand when needed. He loved all his grandchildren (grand, great, and honorary); never did an ice cream truck go by without him buying them and their friends a treat. The kids knew that if grandpa was around, they could run out and line up for a treat the minute they heard the ice cream truck music.

Martin always strove to be a good example for others and worked hard to instill good values in his children. He taught them the value of hard work, gratitude, kindness, humility and a good education. Martin took English classes, obtained his GED and certificates in radio and TV repair. He had a love for reading and learning and read every day when it was possible. Most of the time, you could find him with a book in his hand. He also believed in staying healthy and even participated in his company’s baseball team and took judo classes in his younger days.

After retirement, you could find him walking around the neighborhood, enjoying a stroll or watching telenovelas with Cefe.

He leaves behind seven children Marge, Cesar, Juan, Raul, Teresa, Laura, and Miguel; eighteen grandchildren, Angie, Hugo, Nancy, Kelly, Esia, David, Justin, Lia, Jordan, Monica, Blanca, Natasha, Nick, Leylah, Jared, Jeremiah, Angelina, and Nathaniel Jr; eleven great grandchildren, Sami, Jayden, Hailey, Sylus, Martin, Mildreth, Briana, Gianluca, Kylie, Santiago, Jace, Ace, and Maddie. He also leaves behind three siblings, Julian, Mario, and Josie.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Ceferina, two of his children Hugo, Blanca, and his great granddaughter Alize.

We will miss you greatly, Papa, but knowing how much you loved Ama, it does not surprise us that you went to meet her on Valentine’s Day. Heaven has an amazing new angel to watch over us. Thank you, Lord, for sharing this remarkable man with us.

Always Loved, Never Forgotten!