Israel Rivera

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Israel Roman Rivera, age 86, who departed this life on August 30, 2024, in Oak Lawn, IL. Born on May 26, 1938, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, he was the eldest child of Diego and Maria Teresa (Roman) Rivera.

In 1959, Israel and his family moved to the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago, where he began a life filled with hard work and community engagement. His first job was at Appleton Electric at Belmont and Paulina, followed by a position as a security guard on Wabash at Jeweler's Row. He later served as a concierge at both the Quality Inn and Holiday Inn Hotels. A true jack-of-all-trades, Israel was known for his exceptional ability to connect with others and bring joy to their lives.

A man of gentle demeanor, Israel, had a unique gift for making people smile. He loved dancing, music, and good food—passions best expressed through his favorite treats, including Honey Buns, TV dinners, and meatball sandwiches from Subway. His motto, "Things go better with a Coca Cola," (!!NOT PEPSI DANNY, LOL!!) perfectly encapsulated his joyful spirit. Israel lived his life with a smile and left this world as he lived it—happy and surrounded by love.

Israel was dedicated to his community, contributing to the logistics of the annual Puerto Rican Parades, celebrating his heritage, and bringing people together.

He leaves behind a loving family, including his first marriage with Olga Iris Roman, with whom he had two children, David (Adeline) Rivera and Daniel Rivera. Including his second union with Leyda Muñiz Medina , with whom he had one child Brenda Lee Rivera , Including his third union with Adelina Escamilla, with whom he had one child with, which he cherished his daughter Beatrice Escamilla (Ramiro) and his third wife, the late Katherine Obry. His legacy continues through his half children Luzmaria, Juan M., and Martha Veronica Escamilla, as well as his grandchildren: Dave Rivera Sr, Adeline Rivera, and the late Jason Daniel Rivera, Ramiro Alvarez III and Crystal Alora Alvarez. Three great grandchildren Dave Rivera jr , Mariah Rivera,       J-Zavi Rivera, and he was blessed with 12 half-grandchildren and 26 great half-grandchildren, all of whom he adored.

Israel is survived by his three siblings: Miguel (Norma) Rivera, Carmen Rivera, and Joaquin (Carmen) Millet, who remember him fondly.

A Funeral Mass will be held to honor Israel’s life on Tuesday, September 3, 2024, at 7 PM at St. Pius V, located on 1919 S. Ashland Ave., Chicago. Rev. Thomas Lynch, celebrant. He will be laid to rest privately at Mt. Carmel Cemetery in Hillside.

Israel Roman Rivera will be deeply missed but lovingly remembered by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.

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