Born on December 6, 1924 in San Antonio, Texas, he was the son of the late Margarito Rivas and Margarita Ramirez Rivas.
The oldest of six children, Alfred R. Rivas left school early to support his mother and siblings after his father passed away. When he turned 18, he was drafted into the U.S. Army to fight in World War II. He served honorably in the European Theatre, involved in many notable Allied campaigns, landing at Normandy and fighting with the 331st Infantry Regiment at the Battle of the Bulge. Upon returning home, he met his forever love and wife of 68 years, Norma Velia Fuentes. They eventually made their home in Farmers Branch where they raised their children and lived together for more than five decades. One of his greatest joys was gliding across the dance floor with his beloved, Norma, who would sometimes allow her many daughters and granddaughters a dance of their own. He was a talented bowler, who was still outscoring many of the youngsters in his family when he celebrated his 85th birthday at the local bowling alley.
Alfred spent much of his working life as an industrial painter -- detailing helicopters and airplanes.
It was not until 2007 that Alfred's family would learn the full extent of his bravery in the Armed Forces. Norma discovered multiple honors, including the Bronze Star Medal, which were not awarded to him at the time of his discharge as a Staff Sergeant. With great pride, U.S Congressman, Kenny Marchant, presented Alfred the medals he earned more than sixty years earlier. According to Alfred's discharge record, he "led a squad of 12 riflemen in attacks upon enemy held positions... Participated in combat and reconnaissance patrols behind enemy lines. Captured enemy personnel."
Unconditional love. A brave spirit. A gentle joke and a hug. In these ways, Alfred Rivas gave so much to his family, our country, even the world through his bravery during World War II. He was a member of the Greatest Generation who was also the greatest husband and father to his family.
In addition to his wife, he is survived by his seven children: Laura Aldridge and husband Ronnie; Alfred Rivas Jr. and wife, Jane Rivas; Janis Rivas Franklin and husband, David Franklin; Karen Williamson and husband, Dana Williamson; Cynthia Rivas; Melinda Dwyer and husband, Sean Dwyer; Elissa Rivas Stipes and husband, Chris Stipes. He is also survived by numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, as well as his sister, Hope Pirtle, and brother, Manuel Alva.
He is preceded in death by his siblings, Gloria Rivas, Joseph Rivas, and Albert Alva.
Visitation is on Friday, September 13, 2019, 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Rhoton Funeral Home, 1511 South Interstate-35E, Carrollton, Texas, 75006. The funeral service is on Saturday, September 14, 2019 at 12:30 p.m. at Wildwood Chapel at Restland Funeral Home and Cemetery, 13005 Greenville Avenue, Dallas, Texas 75234.
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