Jovanny Rafael Rivera

April 6, 1993 – April 13, 2025

With heavy hearts and profound sadness, we announce the passing of Jovanny Rafael Rivera, who left this world on April 13th, 2025, after a long and tireless battle with addiction. He was 32 years old.

Born on April 6th, 1993, to two loving parents, Norma Muñoz and Robert Rivera, Jovanny—known lovingly by many as Rafael—was a bright, radiant soul who made an unforgettable impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His contagious laughter had a way of filling a room, disarming pain, and bringing joy even on the darkest days. He carried a light within him that could not be ignored—a warmth that left an imprint on every life he touched. There wasn’t a single person who encountered Rafael who had anything but love and admiration for him.

Joe’s greatest passion was music. It was his escape, his therapy, and the truest expression of who he was. From the time he was in middle school, music became his sanctuary—his way of navigating a world that didn’t always feel kind or easy. Over the years, his sound blossomed into deeply meaningful art, woven with his emotions, truths, and hopes. For those who knew him, and for those who will come to know him through his music, his songs are a lasting testament to his soul—a gift that lives on beyond this life.

Though his journey with addiction was filled with hardships, Joe fought with everything he had. His courage, strength, and vulnerability were evident in every step he took, and he never stopped trying to heal, to grow, and to hold on to hope. He was not defined by his struggle—he was defined by his heart, his kindness, his resilience, and his extraordinary ability to love.

He is survived by his parents, Norma Muñoz and Robert Rivera, his sister, Julissa Rivera, as well as extended family and countless friends who will forever cherish his memory.

A Memorial Mass will be held on Wednesday, April 30th, 2025, at Saint Joseph's Catholic Church in Golden, Colorado at 1:00 PM, and his ashes will be placed in Golden Cemetery, across the way from church, immediately following mass. The family then invites you to attend their reception promptly after in Saint Joseph's Parish Hall.

In honor of Jovanny, the family encourages donations to be made to organizations supporting addiction recovery and mental health awareness—so that others may continue the fight that he fought so bravely.

Though his time with us was far too short, Joe’s spirit, music, and love will echo in our hearts forever.

Rest peacefully now, Jovanny. Your battle is over, but your light lives on.