George Rivera

George Rivera was called to his eternal home to be with his Savior, Jesus Christ, on October 23, 2025. He was born in Santa Fe, NM, August 12, 1937 to Adalaido and Celina Rivera. He was an amazing father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is survived by his wife, Irma Rivera, daughters, Marlene Miera (Martin), Susan Molander (Terre), sons Andrew Rivera (Tina), and Mathew Rivera. He had 10 grandchildren, eleven great grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.

Predeceased by parents: Adalaido and Celina Rivera, first wife, Emma Rivera, sisters Erlinda Casados, Mabel Trujillo and Faby Valdez and son Edwin Rivera.

He attended school in Santa Fe, graduated from Santa Fe High School and joined the United States Army. He was in the Artillery Branch and was assigned to a twelve man 155 mm howitzer unit. He suffered a training accident which ended his military career. He served his country for three years and was stationed in Nuremberg, West Germany. He took his family, wife and three kids back to New Mexico and when he and his family arrived he worked odd jobs until he landed a position as a draftsman. He and his first wife, Emma later added two more boys to the family. The following years they spent raising their family, taking on challenges that children bring, traveling and enjoying life. Emma sadly passed away in 1983.

George worked for the New Mexico State Highway department for 25 years and as a senior draftsman, he designed the Paseo Del Norte/Coors Blvd. overpass. During the time he was working for the state, he attended New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM, and earned his bachelor's degree in Elementary Education but chose not to pursue a career in teaching. Later on in 1984 he met and married Irma. They resided here in Albuquerque, spending time traveling, remodeling two homes and welcoming their grandchildren and great grandchildren. He retired from the highway department in 1987. He was the kind of person who couldn't sit still and was always finding things to do, so he got a job with Enterprise Car Rental and drove all over the state. He always had an amusing story to tell about his crazy driving adventures. He drove for them until his health was compromised and he finally retired. He got great joy in being a greeter at Calvary Chapel for many years where he was a member. A man of strong faith, he trusted the Lord in every season of life and found peace in His promises. He had a tender heart and wasn't afraid to show it.... quick to tears, especially when moved by faith, family or a good story. He loved children and animals and they loved him right back. Though he had a mischievous streak and could be a bit of a stinker at times, his humor and lightheartedness made him all the more endearing. He loved life's simple pleasures, especially a good slice of pie. He was delighted and a little annoyed to discover that there was a Marie Callendar's right in his neighborhood, wondering why no one had told him sooner.

We are all going to miss him dearly....his genuine love for others, his knack for finding joy in the everyday, his endless supply of life hacks and his generous heart. He had a gift for making people smile, and his laughter will echo in our hearts forever.

Services for George will be on November 6, 2025, 10:00-11:00 visitation, 11:00-12:00 service at Calvary Chapel of Albuquerque, 4001 Osuna Rd. NE. Burial at Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 12:00-1:00, 7999 Wyoming Blvd NE will follow service. Reception at Calvary Chapel will follow burial, 1:00-3:00.