Ricardo Rivera

Ricardo Rivera, 65, of Willimantic, CT passed away unexpectedly on May 21, 2021. He was born in Bridgeport, CT to Bienvenido Padillo and Isabel (Barrios) Rivera.

Rick was an outgoing person with strong moral values and spiritual beliefs. He was very athletic and had a tremendous love of football. In his younger days, he played semi-pro football, as well as baseball, softball, and basketball. Ricardo was an assistant coach with Ledyard High School for many years. He had a heart of gold and had a strong passion for helping anyone he could, especially the youth. Rick enjoyed sharing his knowledge of football and strength training. For more than 10 years, he and a close friend owned a personal training business, which he retired from. After retirement, Rick continued to help his grandson and his friends reach their personal fitness goals. Rick was loved by his family and he always showed his family how much he loved them. He was a good husband, father, and grandfather.

Ricardo is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda; grandson Isaiah B. Rivera; granddaughter Janelle Lynn Rivera; sisters Rose, Gloria, Miriam, and Margarita; and his brother Louis. He was from a large family with many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his son Ricardo D. Rivera; mother Isabel; father Bienvenido; sister Bienvenida; and brother Gilberto.

His family will receive relatives and friends on Wednesday, June 9, 2021 from 5:00pm to 8:00pm at the VFW 1415 W. Main St. Willimantic, CT 06226. In lieu of flowers monetary gifts can be given to the family. To sign an online guestbook visit www.potterfuneralhome.com

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