Obituaries
Wilfredo “Will” Rivera, 39, passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 15, 2023, at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. He was met at the Pearly Gates by his father, Wilfredo Rivera who preceded him in death in March of 1991.
Born in Bayamon, Puerto Rico and formally of the Bronx, New York, he was a son of Ruth (Rivas) Rivera and the late Wilfredo Rivera.
Will moved to Bethlehem, PA from the Bronx and there he met his loving wife, Melissa (Fontanez) Rivera with whom he shared 17 years of marriage this past January 14th.
Will was a long-time member of Transformation Church in Allentown. He was a youth when he was anointed to play the keys without any formal musical training.
He was a CDL Truck Driver for A-Tech which led him to take many trips and visit the beautiful scenery of many states. Will was a “Jack of all trades!” He was a self-taught musician, photographer, DJ and Air BnB Proprietor. He was a proud and longtime member of a local motorcycle club.
Will was funny and lived life to the fullest. To know him was to love him. He always had a grin on his face. The things closest to his heart were his 4 loving children and his grandson. Will always made the time to attend events and functions with his children and was proud of their accomplishments. They were his pride and joy!
Will will be missed by all who had the honor and privilege to know him. Whether it was while worshipping, riding, or sharing quality time, he shall never be forgotten.
Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Melissa; mother, Ruth (Rivas) Rivera; daughters; Angelica Marie Rivera and her companion, Miguel Marrero, Janet Naome Angelina Rivera, Ruth Angeni Rivera; son, Wilfredo David Rivera; brother, Richard A. Roman and his wife, Lisette; sisters; Demarie Roman, Alida Rivera and her fiancé Alex Rodriguez-Maisonet; grandson; several aunts, nieces, many cousins and countless friends.
There will be a public viewing on Friday, September 22, 2023, from 5:00-7:00 P.M. at The Center Lehigh Valley 529 E. Broad Street, Bethlehem, PA. 18018. A funeral service officiated by Rev. Dr. Charles Omeda will immediately follow from 7-8:30 P.M.
*We ask that all in attendance make their way out of the sanctuary at (8:30 PM) in a timely manner so that Will’s immediate family may say their final farewell in private *
There will be a graveside burial at Bethlehem Memorial Park Cemetery 1851 Linden Street, Bethlehem, PA. 18017 on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at 8:45 a.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions or donations may be made to Melissa Fontanez-Rivera care of Brubaker Funeral Home, Inc. of Coplay. 327 Chestnut St., Coplay, PA. 18037. (610)262-5081.
Online memories and condolences for the Rivera family may be shared at www.brubakerfuneralhome.com. Brubaker Funeral Home, Inc. of Coplay is honored to handle the arrangements.
*RIP WILLITO"
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Previous Events
Visitation
22
Sep
529 E. Broad Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Funeral Service
22
Sep
529 E. Broad Street
Bethlehem, PA 18018
Graveside
23
Sep
1851 Linden St
Bethlehem , PA 18017
Cemetery Details
Location
1851 Linden St
Bethlehem , PA 18017