Carlos "Charlie" "Charlie" Rivera

Carlos "Charlie" Rivera, a cherished husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, brother-in-law, uncle, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 8, 2025, at the age of 88 in Middletown, NY.

Born on November 12, 1936, in Manhattan, NY, Charlie lived a life marked by dedication, service, and a deep love for his family and community. He attended P.S. 62 in the Bronx and the Manhattan High School of Aviation Trades. He was an avid swimmer and water safety instructor who saved the lives of many as a highly skilled lifeguard at South Beach in Staten Island and Rockaway Beach in Riis Park.

Charlie's service to the country as an Army Veteran, achieving the rank of Sergeant First Class, spoke to his strong sense of duty and patriotism.

Charlie also served with distinction as a Detective 2nd Grade in the NYPD's Bronx Homicide Task Force, where his sharp instincts and dedication to justice were recognized by everyone who worked with him. Charlie's passion and commitment to law enforcement and public service were also matched by his philanthropy. He was a humble gentleman with a big, bright smile who aimed to promote the welfare of others and generously helped those in need. He was also a lifelong member of the NYPD Hispanic Society, the Association of Retired Hispanic Police (ARHP) of the NYPD, the Detectives' Endowment Association (DEA), and the Honor Legion of the Police Department of the City of New York. Charlie received numerous awards, commendations, and exceptional merits during his lifetime for outstanding police work, valor, and community service. He was recognized by the Haverstraw Elks Lodge #877 and supported the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund along with many non-profit organizations. As a retiree from the NYPD, he worked for Pinkerton Securities and Middletown's Regional Economic Community Action Program Inc. (RECAP), ensuring the safety of others and helping people while positively changing their lives.

Charlie was predeceased by his father, José Antonio Rivera, and his mother, Panchita Gonzalez.

Charlie is survived by his beloved wife, Nildalina M. Rivera, with whom he shared 65 years of love and cherished memories.

He was a loving father to his three children: Charles E. Rivera and his wife, Elsie Garcia Rivera; David A. Rivera and his wife, Bridget Kolka Rivera; and Linda D. Rivera Bradt and her husband, Anthony Bradt.

His legacy continues through his five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren, who will miss his guidance and warmth. He also leaves behind his sister Gloria Edrich, half-brother José

"Joe" Antonio Rivera Jr., half-sister Lydia Logue, and several nieces and nephews, all of whom will remember Charlie for his steadfast presence and kind heart.

Charlie's life was filled with service to others, integrity, compassion, love, and generosity that touched everyone he knew. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, but his spirit will live on in the countless lives he touched. His unwavering dedication to his family, friends, and community will be his enduring legacy, a testament to a life well-lived.

Carlos "Charlie" Rivera was a man of honor, courage, and kindness. His memory will forever be a beacon of light for all who had the privilege of knowing and loving him. Rest in peace.

In lieu of a memorial service and flowers, memorial donations may be made to the NYPD Hispanic Society, a fraternal non-profit organization, In Memory of Detective 2nd Grade Carlos Rivera by check payable to NYPD Hispanic Society or via Zelle to nypdhsinfo@gmail.com, the DEA Widows' & Children's Fund at https://nycdetectives.org/widows-childrens-fund/, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital at https://www.stjude.org/donate