Rafael R. Rivera

Rafael Rivera, 88, of Wyomissing passed away April 18, 2017 in his Wyomissing residence.

He was the beloved husband of Marie D. (Hamilton) Rivera, with whom he celebrated 64 years of marriage.

Born in Orocovis, Puerto Rico, he was the son of the late Jose and Carmela (Rosada) Rivera.

Rafael was member of Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, West Reading.

He was employed by Berks Products as a Heavy Machine Operator for over 45 years and Weis Markets for 13 years.

Rafael was an avid Phillies fan. He also enjoyed backyard cookouts, playing softball and playing dominoes with his siblings and friends. But Rafael true love was spending time with his family and going to his children and grandchildren's events.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his five children, Ralph C., husband of Nancy E. Rivera, Sinking Spring; Mark A. Rivera, Schuylkill Haven; Miguel, husband of Brenda Rivera, Pottsville; Elton M. Rivera, Wyomissing; and Hope, widow of Michael Kirlin, Robesonia. He is also survived by eight siblings, nine grandchildren and thirteen great-grandchildren.

Rafael was predeceased by four siblings and a son, Joseph M. Rivera.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Monday, April 24, 2017 at 9:30 am in Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church, with burial to follow at Gethsemane Cemetery . Viewing will be held Sunday, April 23 from 5 to 7 pm in the Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., 739 Penn Ave., West Reading. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in honor of Rafael to Hospice Department of Berks Visiting Nurses, 1170 Berkshire Blvd, Wyomissing, PA 19610. Edward J. Kuhn Funeral Home Inc., West Reading is in charge of arrangements. Online condolences may be recorded at www.kuhnfuneralhomes.com.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to their neighbor, Nelly Lipe, for her continuous care and support during this difficult time.