It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Eduardo Gabriel Rivera, affectionately known as Ed, who departed this life on February 10, 2025, at the age of 82. Born on October 9, 1942, in Puerto Rico, Ed embraced life with a spirited passion that drew friends and loved ones to him throughout his journey. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, he leaves behind a legacy woven through the many lives he touched.
Ed was married to his beloved wife, Patricia "Patty" Rivera (nee Frederick), for 58 wonderful years. Together, they instilled a sense of love, respect, and appreciation for family in their children: Dr. Ed (Elizabeth) Rivera, Tricia (Mark) Hoffmann, Michael (Jodi) Rivera, Ann (Mike) Hug, and Dr. Katie (Russ) Litt. As a grandfather, he cherished his role immensely, relishing the joy and laughter brought by his grandchildren: Logan, Alex, Gabe, Spencer, Marissa and Madison Rivera, Julia, Nicholas and Abby Hoffmann, Chase, Layne and Miles Rivera, Benjamin and Jacob Hug, and Donovan, Emma and Olivia Litt.
He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Miguel and Aida Rivera, and his two brothers, Miguel and Rafael Rivera. Ed was a beloved brother-in-law to Sandy (Barry) Schuster, Paula (Bob) Heinecke, Lynn (Denny) Yockey, and Beth (Jim) Schoenlaub. Dear uncle of Jose, Mickey, Aida, Paul, Dawn, Danielle, Tracy, Rob, Scott, Kari, Todd, Renee, Victor, Matthew, late Jimmy, Sarah, Elizabeth, Emily and numerous great-nieces and nephews who adored him.
As an esteemed professor passionate about education, Ed shared his love for learning with his students at the university level. He was known affectionately as the family weatherman, always sharing the latest updates with humor and care. Eduardo had a magnetic personality; he did not know a stranger. His friendly demeanor and kind heart inspired camaraderie wherever he went, making friends effortlessly and always found delight in the small joys, such as carrying dog treats for the neighborhood pups. He also delighted in the company of his furry companions, especially his dog Leroy and his grandpups Sadie and Teddy, who brought him boundless joy.
In honoring Ed's life, we invite all who knew him to celebrate his memory. Visitation will be held on Friday (February 21) at Frederick Funeral Home, 2553 Banning Road from 4:00pm-8:00pm. Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday (February 22) at St. Margaret Mary Church, 1830 W Galbraith Rd. at 11am.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, (https://www.stjude.org/), 501 St. Jude Place Memphis, TN. 38105, Little Hills of Kentucky Animal Rescue, (https://www.littlehillsrescue.org/)., American Cancer Society (https://www.cancer.org/) or Habitat for Humanity (https://www.habitatcincinnati.org/). Let us remember Ed Rivera, a man whose greatest pride was his family, and let us carry forward his legacy of love, generosity, and unwavering support for one another. Special condolences may be expressed at frederickfh.com.