Policarpo "Paul" Martinez Rivera Sr

Policarpo "Paul" Martinez Rivera, age 89, went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, Friday morning, February 5, 2021 with his only surviving sibling, Alice Hudson, by his side. He was born on January 26, 1932, in Peoria, Arizona to Raymundo and Eva Rivera. He was the second oldest of four children.

Paul was a U.S. Navy veteran who served his country proudly for four years. During his time in the Military Service, Paul was awarded the National Defense Ribbon, the Korean Service Ribbon, and the United Nation ribbon. Paul served as a Large Equipment operator and Driver in the Military. He spent his life working as a Heavy Equipment Machine Operator and was a member of the Teamsters Union, which he was very proud of, until his retirement. He was a strong patriarch of his family. He was a good father who always did the best he could to teach and guide his children. He loved his family beyond measure and showed it in all he did. A selfless and simple man who put others before himself.

Paul met Emelia they were blessed by the Lord with four children; Paul Rivera, Terri Baduini, Steve Rivera, and Irma Rivas. Paul and Emelia shared many years together but eventually drifted apart. Years later Paul would meet the love of his life Emily Carrillo. He became a stepfather to Arlene Rojo, David Carrillo, Albert Carrillo, Anthony Celaya, and Stephanie Celaya whom he loved as his own.

Paul is preceded in death by his father Raymundo Rivera, mother Eva Rivera, one brother, one sister and his life partner, Emily Carrillo. He is survived by his sister Alice Hudson, his children Paul Rivera, Terri Baduini, Steve Rivera (Georgina), Irma Rivas (Andy), Arlene Rojo (David), David Carrillo (Veronica), Albert Carrillo, Anthony Carrillo (Emma), and Stephanie Celaya, his 23 grandchildren, and 34 great-grandchildren.