Roberto Rivera Jr., a 35‑year‑old firefighter from Yonkers, Westchester County, died on Saturday, October 24, 2026. Rivera had served the Yonkers Fire Department for nearly nine years, assigned to Station 13. Prior to joining the department, he served in the United States Navy. A memorial Mass will be held Sunday, November 8, at 9:45 a.m. in the Sacred Heart Church on Shonnard Place, Yonkers. The ceremony will also honor former Fire Chief Joseph J. Kivel, who died on August 29, and firefighter Joseph Anthony Maccariello, who died on July 3, 2026. Rivera earned recognition in 2022 for rescuing people during a fire on Midland Avenue, an act that highlighted his willingness to intervene in dangerous situations. Colleagues described him as protective, supportive, and dedicated, qualities that extended beyond his uniform. Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano expressed his sorrow, noting Rivera’s active participation in community activities beyond his professional duties. “It is never easy to communicate to our community the loss of one of our own heroes,” Spano said in a message posted on October 26. Station 13 firefighters described Rivera as a brother, friend, and integral member of the firehouse family. Rivera’s younger brother paid tribute, recalling their lifelong bond, shared interests in basketball, exercise, boxing, and competitions, and Rivera’s protective nature toward family and nephews. Following Rivera’s death, members of the Yonkers Fire Department organized a fundraising campaign to help cover funeral expenses and support his family. Joseph Jimenez led the effort, emphasizing the brotherhood Rivera shared with his colleagues. The department also arranged for its Honor Guard to attend the funeral services as a mark of respect. The memorial Mass provides an opportunity for Rivera’s family, friends, fellow firefighters, police officers, and community members to remember him and other service members who died this year. Rivera’s military and firefighting careers leave a legacy of a man who found his purpose in serving others.
Article source: El Nuevo Diario | Image credit: El Nuevo Diario