Medical and Funeral Expenses for Richard Rivera

We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Richard Martin Rivera, of Ocate, NM. He died at the age of 43 and was a beloved son, dad, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend. Richard passed away on July 8, 2023, in Albuquerque, NM. Richard was born on September 21, 1979, to Steve and Vangie Rivera in Taos, NM. Richard now joins his brother Benny Rivera, his grandparents, Benny and Ernestine Arguello, Joe Rivera, and an aunt, Catherine Wolfe in eternal rest.

Richard’s infectious smile will always be remembered by his children, Diego, Adriano, and Richelle Rivera, parents Steve and Vangie Rivera, siblings Joey (Stephanie), Robert (Nicole) and Christina (Kenny).  He is also survived by nieces and nephews: Alisia Rivera, Zavion Rivera, Urijah Rivera, Evangeline Rivera, Riley Rivera, Rory Rivera, and Kane Lords. His grandmother, Tita James, also survives him. 

Our family was not expecting for Richard’s life to be cut so short so soon. We are all devastated by this huge loss, and he will be forever missed. He was born with a naturally sweet and kind soul, a heart of gold, and a big smile for everyone he met.

Richard’s early eduction started in Taos, NM, and after moving to Ocate, NM, Richard attended Wagon Mound Public Schools. He was a 1998 graduate of Wagon Mound High School. Richard enjoyed playing basketball and participating in chess where he went to the state tournament many consecutive years.

After graduating from high school, Richard resided in Ocate, NM. Richard worked in the construction industry in Angel Fire, NM, but his passion was always guiding hunters throughout the mountains of New Mexico and Colorado. He worked for Rimrock Outfitting guiding hunters for many years alongside his dad. He was a very successful guide pulling out elk, including many that were in the trophy class. He made many lifetime friends from these hunting interactions.

Richard’s caring spirit and generous heart could be felt by everyone he knew. He had a special gift of not only seeing the good in people but bringing out the best in them as well. Richard was an avid lover of the outdoors and spent much of his time in the mountains enjoying the serene beauty they encompassed. Observing Richard in nature was something to behold as he had a way of drawing out elk and other animals to hunt. His love for the outdoors brought out the happy free spirit that defined him.

Services are pending and are under the direction of Riverside Funeral Home.