Margarito Rivera Jr.

Margarito was born on December 11, 1953, in Austin, Texas, to Leandro Vasquez and Maria Rivera. He shared 54 years of marriage with his beloved wife, Janie Rivera, and built a life centered around family, hard work, laughter, and the people he loved most.

Margarito will be remembered for his humor, kindness, strong work ethic, and love of the outdoors. He had a special way of bringing laughter and entertainment to those around him. The memories he created with his family—often through life’s simplest moments—will continue to be treasured for generations.

He especially enjoyed riding his lawnmower, spending time on his property, watching sports, attending family gatherings, dancing and being with his grandchildren and dogs. To his family, these ordinary moments became some of their most meaningful memories: time spent together, stories shared, laughter throughout the house, and simply knowing he was there.

Above all, Margarito was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His presence was a constant in the lives of those closest to him, and his family will forever carry the love, lessons, laughter, and memories he leaves behind.

Margarito is survived by his beloved wife, Janie Rivera; his children, Michael Rivera Sr. (Melissa) and Angelica Castro (Paul); his grandchildren, Sereena Rivera (Billy), Vannessa Rios (Johnny), Michael Rivera Jr. (Maria), and Paul Castro Jr.; and his great-grandchildren, Madalyne Rivera, Nairobi Rivera, Johnny Rios III, Santiago Rivera, and Yesenia Rios.

He is also survived by his siblings, Suzanna Lynch (Brian), Janie Rivera, Katherine Zahara (Dan), Vicky Ontiveros, Mary Esther Ybarra (Joe), Irene Damas (Joaquin), Angie, Adella, Arthur (Virginia), Albert (Trisha), Anita, Anthony, Andrew, and Alice Cano (Roy); as well as numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends.

Margarito was preceded in death by his parents, Maria Rivera, Leandro Vasquez, and Step-Mom Beatrice Vasquez, Grandparents Victoria and Gregorio Quiroz, as well as his siblings, Carlos Juarez Sr. Edward Vasquez, Arlene Vasquez, Aileen Vasquez and brother in law Salvador Ontiveros Sr.

Although his passing leaves an immeasurable space in the hearts of those who loved him, Margarito’s life will continue to be remembered through the stories his family shares, the laughter he brought into their lives, and the traditions and memories that will be passed down through generations.

His family finds comfort in knowing that the love he gave throughout his 72 years will remain with them long after his passing.

The Rivera family would like to extend their deepest and most heartfelt gratitude to the entire Gilead hospice team for the compassion, dignity, comfort, and support they provided to Margarito and his family during his final days.

A very special thank you is extended to Nurse Dan Naidh, whose kindness, patience, and compassionate care brought comfort not only to Margarito but also to his family during an incredibly difficult time. The care and tenderness shown to him in his final days will never be forgotten.

The Rivera family would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Karen McElhatten with Swan Songs, and musicians Jonas Alvarez and Chico Oropeza, for their beautiful service, compassion, and kindness. Their music and presence brought comfort, peace, and warmth during an incredibly difficult time, creating a meaningful and memorable part of Margarito’s final journey. Their generosity and care will always be remembered and deeply appreciated by his family.

Margarito was surrounded by comfort, dignity, and love throughout his final journey, and his family will be forever grateful

Family and friends are invited to gather for a public visitation on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home, located at 14501 North IH-35, Pflugerville, Texas 78660.

The Rosary will be recited at 7:00 p.m. that evening at Cook-Walden/Capital Parks Funeral Home.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Margarito’s life will be held on Thursday, September 24, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church, located at 10104 Hill Lane, Manor, Texas 78653.

Following the Funeral Mass, Margarito will be laid to rest at 12:30 p.m. at Cook-Walden Capital Parks Cemetery, located at 14501 North IH-35, Pflugerville, Texas 78660.

Following the committal service, family and friends are invited to gather for a reception at St. Joseph Catholic Church, located at 10104 Hill Lane, Manor, Texas 78653