Mariano G Rivas Jr.

Mariano G. Rivas, Jr., born on February 1, 1921, passed on to eternal life with the Lord on July 3, 2011 at the age of 90. “M.G.,” known by his friends and colleagues, and “Nano,” referred to by his family, was preceded in death by his devoted wife of 69 years, Olivia Flores Rivas, his parents (Mariano D. and Dolores G. Rivas), his brothers (Infant Joe, Joe and Jimmy), and his sisters, Rose Hernandez and Minnie Gonzalez. M.G. is survived by his children: Dolores R. Arellano (Fernando, Jr.), Beatrice Rivas Sanchez and Richard R. Rivas, Sr. (Kathleen); by 7 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; his brother, Frank Rivas, Sr.; his three sisters (Esther Ramos, Ninfa Guerra and Adelina Farias) as well as numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. M.G. was the oldest of nine children. At the age of 15, M.G. participated in FD Roosevelt’s “New Deal” in the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) being assigned to work in Arizona. During World War II from 1942-1944, while at Kelly AFB as an aircraft engine mechanic, he and other civilians were sent to England on a secret mission referred to as “Station X..” They were part of a convoy on “La Reina del Pacifico.” He received the Emblem for Overseas Service from the U.S. War Department for service outside the continental United States during times of national emergency. In 1980, after 38 years of service, M.G. retired from Kelly AFB as a GS11-Systems Analyst. Throughout his career, he participated in numerous training programs which enhanced his service performance leading to many recognition awards. In 1961, he received the Outstanding Performance Award at Kelly Air Force Base. M.G. was a man of high morals and values. Honesty was a highly regarded virtue. He was very dedicated to his family and respected by his colleagues and friends. M.G. believed higher education was very important. He received his GED and took many college courses. Through his example and support, he exemplified the achievement of higher education for his children and grandchildren. M.G. was a parishioner of St. Luke Catholic Church. In 2009, when the church was celebrating its 50th Anniversary, he was recognized as being one of the Founding Parish Members who helped to establish the parish community in 1959. In 1950, M.G. joined the Ancient Free & Accepted Masons of Texas and was an active Life Member of the Nat M. Washer Lodge #1270. He was initiated as an Entered Apprentice Mason; was Worshipful Master in 1957 and in 1993, he was District Deputy Grand Master. In 2010, he received formal recognition of 60 yr. Award. Because of his dedication and achievements, he was respectfully referred as “Mr. Mason.” M.G. enjoyed Spanish and Mexican music. He loved playing his guitar. He especially enjoyed “jam sessions” with his brother, Jimmy, and his cousin, Luis. In his early twenties, he would play his guitar and sing on live radio.

Visitation will be at Sunset Northwest Funeral Home on Bandera Road on Monday, July 11, 2011 from 6:00 P.M. to 9:00 P.M. with a rosary at 7:00 P.M. A funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Luke Catholic Church, 4603 Manitou Drive on Tuesday, July 12, 2011 at 10:00 A.M. with Rev. Msgr. Patrick Ragsdale officiating. Interment will follow at San Fernando #3 cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.