Fernando "Freddy" Rivera

Fernando “Freddy” Rivera of East Chicago passed away peacefully on September 2, 2022 due to Alzheimer’s at home surrounded by family. Fernando was born on November 10, 1951, in San German, Puerto Rico. He is survived by his loving wife of 48 years, Ida “Nora” Rivera, their three children, Lizette (Reynaldo) Cortez, Celinette (Alberto) Vargas and Fernando Rivera Jr, seven grandchildren, Ilissa (Simon) Rivera, Jasmine Ramirez, Kylah Rivera, Ariel Marks, Ken Miles, Laila Rivera, Fernando Rivera III and three great grandchildren Elijah Olivarez, Nyelli Olivarez and Talayah Price.  He is preceded in death by his parents Luis Manuel Rivera Pabon and Clara Julia Vega Camacho. He also leaves behind his brothers Julio Rivera, Luis “Güiro” Rivera, Wilfredo “Felo” Rivera, Juan Rivera and his sisters Gloria Celia Rivera Almodóvar, Luz Maria Rivera and Rosa Melia Rivera as well as a host of nieces, nephews and extended family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 noon on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at St. Patrick's Church, 3802 Grand Blvd., East Chicago, IN with Rev. Juan Dela Cruz Turcios officiating.  Burial to follow at St. John Cemetery, Hammond, Indiana with American Legion Allied Post #369 military services.  Visitation will be from 9:30 to 11:30 am on Tuesday, September 6, 2022 at FIFE FUNERAL HOME, 4201 Indianapolis Blvd., East Chicago, IN.

Freddy moved to Chicago after high school and joined the Army serving in the 82nd Airborne Division, he received numerous medals during his seven-year service. Freddy and Nora met in 1969 and married in 1974 commencing their lives together. He will be remembered as a loving father, husband, grandfather and friend to everyone. He was a father figure to many and valued hard work and honesty. He had a soft spot for dogs especially his Shih Tzu, Gizzy Girl.  

He was always there if you needed him, family or friend. He kept busy with projects throughout the house and took pride in his work. He loved music, Jibaro music, singing, dancing and playing the Güiro and having a good time. His laugh was contagious, and his smile lit up the room. To know him was to love him.

He proudly retired from the U.S Postal Service, Brunswick Office, as a mail carrier after 30 years of service. Fred was adored by the residents on his route in Gary and never missed work always making sure the mail was delivered on time in rain or shine.  

Fernando was a member of the Asociación Benefica Hijos de Borinquen for over 30 years. He served on the Board of Directors and held various positions. He was also member of the East Chicago Evening Lions Club for 25 years holding various positions. From the infamous Pancake Breakfasts at Casa Blanca, to collecting glasses and traveling to Mexico in underserved communities. He had the honor of accepting the Pillar of the Community award on behalf of every leader that had dedicated their time and service to the Evening Lions Club.   

He was an active member and lector at St. Patrick’s Church. Freddy was an incredible role model and will be greatly missed by many. To send an online condolence, logon to: www.fifefuneralhome.com

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