Manuel O. Rivas

Manuel (Manny) Ovidio Rivas passed away on Saturday, May 21st at the age of 91. Fittingly Manny died peacefully with his loving devoted wife Laura, son Adrian and grandson Steven at his side. Manny served his country honorably alongside his twin brother Sal during WWII 1942-46 with the First Marine Division in the Pacific Theatre. To those who knew him- he leaves a legacy of hard work in helping veterans. His honesty, integrity, and unmatched love for family and country will be remembered by all. First and foremost Manny was a loving and caring husband, father and grandfather. He was the happiest when he was with his family. At Christmas time- he was the “Santa” and loved to decorate his house joyfully. He was always happy. His hobbies were wood carvings and gardening. His garden/yard are a testament to his being outside and working hard. He loved to go fishing. Notably Manny’s career was the VFW, civic work and Boy Scouts. It wasn’t work- they were his passion. Key accomplishments: the first Hispanic Texas State VFW Commander, established The Avenue of Flags at Ft. Bliss National Cemetery for Memorial Day Services and brought the Texas State Veterans home to El Paso. He was given the Silver Beaver award from The Boy Scouts. There are countless other accomplishments. Surviving is his wife Laura, son Adrian and wife Silvia, beautiful grandchildren Steven and Nikki, Sister Yolanda and other siblings Martin, Bernice and Nico. He is predeceased by his parents Lydia and Salvador, brothers Sal and Julio. It is said: “What we have done for ourselves dies with us. What we have done for others remains and is immortal.” He lived, loved and left his legacy! There will never be another Manny. Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 25, 2016 from 5-9 pm at Hillcrest Funeral Home, 1060 Carolina with Vigil at 7 pm. Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 9:15 am at St Raphael Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Fort Bliss National Cemetery.