Roberto Rivera

Roberto Rivera Rivera

September 3, 1930 – February 13, 2026

Roberto Rivera Rivera, a proud Korean War veteran and member of the historic 65th Infantry Regiment — the Borinqueneers — passed peacefully on February 13, 2026, in Bradenton, Florida.

Born on September 3, 1930, in Santurce, Puerto Rico, and raised in Villalba, Puerto Rico, his character was formed by faith, discipline, family values, and a profound sense of duty.

At seventeen, he enlisted in the United States Regular Army in October 1947. He served honorably for more than a decade, including combat service in Korea with Company A, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Infantry Division, Eighth United States Army. His record reflects qualification for the Combat Infantryman Badge, recognizing his direct participation in ground combat.

In 2014, the 65th Infantry Regiment was collectively awarded the Congressional Gold Medal in recognition of its heroism and sacrifice — an honor that affirmed the enduring legacy of the Borinqueneers.

Beyond his military service, Roberto was a man of faith, a proud Puerto Rican, and a devoted family patriarch whose quiet strength and steadfast sense of responsibility shaped generations.

Interment with full United States Army military honors will take place at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Road 72, Sarasota, Florida, on Thursday, February 26, 2026. Family and guests are asked to arrive at 12:00 PM, with the committal ceremony beginning promptly at 12:30 PM.

Roberto Rivera Rivera was born to Delfin Rivera y Berrios and Ermelinda Rivera y Ortiz, who preceded him in death.

He is survived by his former spouse, Iris Marín.

He is survived by his children, in order of birth: James Rivera, a United States Army veteran; Roberto Rivera, Jr., who preceded him in death; Lisa Rivera; and Christopher Rivera, a United States Army veteran.

He is also survived by his beloved grandchildren: Michael Almeida, a United States Navy veteran; Kristhal Almeida; Robert Rivera III; Elisa Rivera; Francisco Cifuentes III; Ashley Rivera; Jazmin Rivera; Amaya Bailey-Rivera; Christian Rivera; and Yzabella Rivera.

His legacy of faith, service, and devotion to family endures through the generations who carry his name and honor his memory.

For additional information regarding services or related, please contact the Family Administrator at [email protected].

Photo (on top) - Congressional Gold Medal:
Congressional Gold Medal. Roberto Rivera Rivera holding the medal awarded to the 65th Infantry Regiment (The Borinqueneers), honoring the regiment's heroism and sacrifice.

Photo 1 - Military Service:
Korean War era. Roberto Rivera Rivera in United States Army uniform. Service associated with Company A, 1st Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment (The Borinqueneers).

Photo 2 - Family man:
On his 90th birthday, Roberto was surrounded by the family he loved so deeply. A Korean War veteran, devoted father, grandfather, and patriarch, his legacy lives on through the generations gathered around him — united in love, strength, and gratitude.

Photo 3 - Businessman:
Standing proudly at the entrance of his business in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Roberto Rivera exemplified hard work, dignity, and commitment to family and community. After serving his country honorably, he continued building a life rooted in perseverance and service. August 1971.