Rafael (Ralph) M. Rivera

Rafael M. Rivera "Ralph", 68 of Woodbourne, NY entered into rest August 1, 2015 at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in Manhattan with his loving family by his side. Ralph was born May 7, 1947 in Mayaguez, PR to Rafael R. Rivera and Milagros Matos Rodriquez.

Ralph spent his summer days running his landscaping business in Liberty, NY and enjoyed spending his winters in Florida. He was a loving husband, dedicated father and grandfather with strong religious beliefs. Ralph was a family man who rarely missed his grandsons football games. It brought Ralph great joy to make everyone around him smile whether you knew them or not. He taught his children to work hard and always spend time with family.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Shirley Gonzalez of Woodbourne, NY; sons, Ralph M. Rivera of Monroe, NY and Mathew I. Rivera, of Liberty, NY; daughter, Marissa R. Rivera and her Fiance Bibi Belliard of Bronx, NY; daughter in law, Desiree Rivera of Monroe, NY; grandson, Giovanni Rafael Rivera of Monroe, NY; brother, Raymond Rivera of PR; sisters, Maria and her husband Waldemar Martinez, Juanita Rivera, Socorro Rivera, Geraldina Rivera and Inocencia Rivera all of PR; 6 step children and 17 step grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by 2 brothers Carlos and Tony Rivera and 2 sisters Carmen and Milagros Rivera.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, August 4 from 2-4 and 7-9pm at Ramsey Funeral Home, 275 South Main Street, Liberty, NY. Mass of Christian burial will be held Wednesday, August 5, 11:45am at St. Peter's Church in Liberty, NY. Burial will immediately follow in St. Peter's Cemetery in Liberty, NY.