A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend, Ismael (Ish) Rivera, 86, passed away on November 6, 2015. A great Man of Faith and cherished by All. He will be truly missed.

Ish was born on November 2, 1929 in Caguas, Puerto Rico and grew up as a Pastor’s son surrounded by his large extended family until he was drafted into the Korean War.  After receiving the Bronze Star and Purple Heart, he returned to United States and attended George Washington University where he obtained a Masters of Arts in Political Studies and Government.  It was here he met the love of his life, Hazel Welch, and they were married on November 2, 1957, his birthday.

After completing his studies, Ish entered the Foreign Service Corp of the State Department and worked for 30 years in building relationships between nations in various countries throughout the world. Upon retirement and completing another Master’s Degree in Education, he dedicated himself to teaching Spanish to his students as a Professor at Campbell University for 19 years, retiring in 2007.

Ish’s strong Baptist Faith, his love for God’s Word was central to his life. Whether he was singing in the choir, teaching Sunday School, serving in the Sanford Lions Club, visiting family and friends, or taking his daily walks, he truly believed  that sharing a warm compassionate smile or hello to everyone you meet would bring some joy to their hearts.  Ish always had a smile on his face and a song in his heart to give.

He also loved his Yankees and Classical Music, especially the Opera, but most of all he loved to Sing.  Storytelling and laughter were always present when family and friends were around. He has touched so many people with his gentleness and compassion. He will be truly missed.

Ish is survived by his wife of 58 years, Hazel Rivera, and his three children, Patricia Rivera of Gibsonville, NC, Kenneth Rivera and wife Kim of Belmont, NC and Roland Rivera and wife Janice of Dayville, CT. Three Grandchildren, Kaley Rivera-Thompson and husband Gage, Kristin Rivera and Joshua Rivera and many nieces and nephews.

A memorial Service will be held at Jonesboro Heights Baptist Church in Sanford on Thursday, November 12, 2015 at 11 am.  Visitation will be from 10 to 11AM in the church fellowship hall. The Burial Service will be held at Chalybeate Springs Baptist Church Cemetery in Chalybeate Springs at 2:30 pm followed by a reception.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Sanford Lions Club, 505 N Fifth St., Sanford, NC  27330.

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