Obituary of Hiram Rivera, Sr.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Hiram Rivera, Sr., aged 86, who departed this world peacefully at his Elizabeth Port home, embraced by the love of his family. Hiram's journey began in Cidra, Puerto Rico, and led him through the vibrant streets of Spanish Harlem in New York City to Elizabeth and finally Plainfield, New Jersey. It was in Plainfield where he, alongside his beloved late wife Zulma, nurtured and raised a family filled with love and laughter.

Hiram's professional life was marked by a remarkable 48-year tenure as a manager at Pathmark in Middlesex, where his dedication and resilience saw him through numerous company transitions and at least two significant employee strikes. His commitment to his work was only surpassed by his commitment to his family and the joyous pursuits of his life.

A man of simple pleasures, Hiram found delight in weekend rituals – meticulously caring for his lawn on Saturdays and diligently working on his car's engine on Sundays. His love for flea markets was well-known, with Columbus Park and Englishtown being his favorites. Hiram's passion for life was evident in his love for dancing to Spanish music, rooting for the NY Giants, and his unwavering devotion to the New York Mets. His enthusiasm for the Mets was contagious; he would often brighten a room with his spirited “Let’s Go Mets” chant.

But above all, Hiram was a man of humor and warmth. His penchant for practical jokes and his ability to bring laughter to any situation will be dearly missed by those who knew him best.

Hiram's legacy lives on through his children, Barbara Howell, Hiram Rivera Jr. and his wife Mailys Poveda, and Victor Rivera and his significant other Joyce Haydu; his cherished grandchildren Mahalia Rivera (Jorge Escobar), Janaia Rivera, Jaden Howell, Azriel Howell, and Luna Rivera; and his adored great-grandchildren Jayson, Nideysha, D’Angelo, Jenalyn, and Zavion. He also leaves behind a loving extended family and a multitude of friends whose lives he touched.

We invite those who wish to pay their respects to join us at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd, Watchung, NJ 07069, on Saturday, November 18, 2023. Following the visitation, cremation services will be held privately.

Hiram's departure leaves a void that can never be filled, but his spirit, laughter, and love for life will forever be cherished in our memories.