Miguel Angel Rivera

Affectionately known as Mickey, Miguel Angel Rivera passed away in the early morning of August 18, 2025, at the age of 79.

He is survived by his devoted wife of more than 50 years, Herda Maria Rivera; his children, Raphael Vélez, Susanne (Gregory) Parker, and Joanne (Michael) MacMillan; four grandchildren, Zacary Parker, Gavin Parker, Alec MacMillan, and Alicia MacMillan; two great-grandchildren, Nicholas and Alexander Parker; and a beloved nephew, Victor Lugo.

Miguel was preceded in death by his parents, Herminio and Lucia Rivera, as well as his siblings, Hilda Rivera, Milton Rivera, and Aida Rivera.

As a young man, Miguel proudly served his country during the Vietnam War with the U.S. Army as an aviation mechanic. During his service, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal with “V” for valor in recognition of his heroism.

Following his honorable discharge, he went on to build a long and successful career with Honeywell, where he worked as an electrical engineer for 48 years until his retirement.

Known as a “social butterfly,” Miguel had a gift for connecting with others through his love of music and social gatherings. He was a man of many talents and hobbies: an expert mechanic, skilled dancer, and savvy handyman who could fix just about anything. Later in life, he discovered his “golden thumb,” becoming an avid gardener with a remarkable ability to grow and nurture his garden. Among his greatest joys were fishing in the Sound or under the Navarre Bridge with his family.

Before relocating to Navarre, Miguel and Herda were longtime members of First Baptist Church in Plymouth, CT. After settling in Navarre, they found their spiritual home at Navarre Methodist Church, where they have been faithful and active members ever since.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Navarre Methodist Church on Monday September, 15th at 11:00 AM, followed by a procession to Barrancas National Cemetery, where Miguel will be laid to rest with military honors.