Ernest Y. Rivera

Ernest Y. Rivera
Passed away peacefully on June 10th, surrounded by his loving family. A resident of Upland for most of his life, he was born in Miami, Arizona in March of 1929, to the late Candido and Juanita Rivera.
As a boy, he worked alongside his Grandfather in the vineyards of Guasti picking grapes. He later lit smudge pots in the lemon groves around Upland. From the experience of working at a young age, he developed a strong work ethic which he honored his whole life.
A skilled carpenter, he worked as the Yard Superintendent for Syart Concrete Construction for over 40 years.
He was a proud Veteran of the U.S. Army, volunteering to serve his country during the Korean War. He distinguished himself through his courage and bravery, earning a Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars, and other commendations and citations.
He was a very generous man, always willing to share his time, talent and treasure. If there was work to be done, he was the first to volunteer, the first to arrive and the last to leave. He helped construct houses, pour driveways, fix roofs and build children's forts. There was no job too big or too small if someone needed help. He would give his last dollar to anyone who needed it.
He loved his children and adored his grandchildren. Rain or shine, he attended their school and sporting events, sometimes driving from field to field so that he could support every child. He enjoyed joking with and talking to his grandchildren, passing on his "pearls of wisdom".
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Sophie, his loving wife of 57 years, and Benito and Alejandro Rivera, his dear brothers. He leaves behind his children - Carolin (Enrique Mirelez), Ernest (Carolyn), Edward, Laura (Sully Moore), and Alice (Vernon Garcia); Grandchildren - Derrick Mirelez, Tom Murillo, Kenny Murillo, Rebecca Rivera, Alexandra Rivera, Morgan Rivera, Cameron Moore, Nick Garcia, Amanda Garcia, Noelle Garcia, and Christian Garcia, as well as 7 great grandchildren and 1 great-great granddaughter. He is also survived by his siblings Robert, Candido, Gilbert, Martin, Soqui and Sally Rivera, Vickie Miramontez and Lupe Lane; as well as numerous nieces, nephews and friends. Stone Funeral Home is in charge of funeral arrangements.