Carmelo Rivas passed away peacefully with his family at home on Thursday, April 23, 2020.

He was born on July 20, 1926 in Juncos, Puerto Rico to Serafin Rivas and Candida Flores.

He is survived by siblings: Julia Rivas, Pricilla Rivas and Nilda Rivas (three additional siblings, Victor, Ramon and Engracio Rivas are deceased). His three children: William, Jose and Irma Rivas. Seven granddaughters: Monica Rivas Bonilla, Joselyn Kokosioulis, Yvonne Rivas, Aileen Rivas, Wilmarie Aponte, Brenda and Jasmin Rivas. Carmelo also had 21 great grandchildren and 13 great-great grandchildren.
He was married to his loving wife, Juana Bonilla Rivas in 1945. They lived in Juncos, where they had their three children. They spent some years living in New Haven, CT and later moved back to Puerto Rico where Carmelo became a successful businessman as the owner of El Colmado Rivas. He retired at 62 and sold his business. After his wife's passing in 1993, Carmelo spent much of his time with siblings, his children, grandchildren and their ever-growing families. He never hesitated to help when he was needed. He often visited his grandchildren in the states and loved spending time with his many great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren. He was loved by them all. Carmelo lived in Puerto Rico with his daughter until shortly after the devastation of Hurricane Maria swept the island. He spent his last days in Houston surrounded by love until he took his last breath. We will miss his warrior spirit and contagious laugh.

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