Norberto Rivera

Norberto Rivera, 71, passed away at home surrounded by his family on Thursday, September 13, 2018 in New Port Richey, Florida. He was born June 6, 1947 to Clemente and Margarita (Vargas) Rivera in Ponce, Puerto Rico. On March 10, 1969 he married Carmen Colón in Brooklyn, New York. Norberto enjoyed fishing, boxing and New York Yankees baseball; out driving on the open road, his Christian faith and his infamous specialty – Puerto Rican rice. He served his country as a US Army soldier and was honorably discharged on June 23rd, 1977. He worked 35 years in the medical industry while pursuing pastoral leadership in Bethel Church in Brooklyn. He taught biblical theology and was ordained by the Assembly of God. After retirement, he moved to Pasco county in Florida where he continued the work of his Creator in shaping future leaders of the church and its congregations. He is survived by his wife Carmen, his 4 sons Robert Rivera, Raymond Rivera, Richard Rivera and Ernest Rivera, daughter Elizabeth Torres; 14 grandchildren Devin, Carolyn, Suleit, Beonca, Raymond Jr, Xavier, Norberto, Donnavin, Christopher, Angel, Elijah, Kayla, Khloe and Skyler, 10 great grandchildren Zmyrah, Leylah, Dante, Myla, Xiomara, Damien, Aaliyah, Noah, Xander, Veronica, 5 Sisters Alminda, Aracelis, Iris, Carmen and Maria, 3 Brothers Clemente, Noel and Jose; as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, in-laws and 3 brothers Andre, Hector and Nelson. A time of gathering will be held on Sunday, September 16 at: Faupel Funeral Home 7524 Ridge Road Port Richey, FL 34668 727-849-9964 Viewing is on Sunday from 2-5pm Service is on Monday from 11-12pm (Doors open at 9am for viewing) Burial Ceremony at Florida National Cemetery 6502 S.W. 102nd Avenue Bushnell, FL 33513 352-793-7740 Monday, September 17, 2018 1pm