Birth date: Mar 8, 1940 Death date: Dec 17, 2025
Deacon John Rivera, age 85, of North Ridgeville passed away on Wednesday, December 17, 2025 after a short illness at St. John Westshore, Westlake. John was born in Leon Guanajuato, Mexico and had lived in North Ridgeville since 19 Read Obituary
Dolores and family,
We are sorry for the loss of Deacon John.
May God Rest John Soul in Heavenly Peace.
We will love ❤️ and miss you Our Spiritual Friend. DeColores
Sending Love ❤️, hugs 🫂 and prayers 🙏,
Amira and Theresa Joseph and Family
Deacon John came into my life when I became a member of the St. Julie Billiart family. For over 12 years, I looked forward to Saturday Mass as I was going to get a few minutes with him each week. Deacon and Mrs. Rivera welcomed me with open arms, a gentle presence, and I truly believe I saw the face of Jesus in their eyes. A man of faith, family, and compassion. Blessed are those who called him friend, family, or Deacon. My heart breaks for those of us who mourn, but I have to hold onto what 2 of his young granddaughters said to me yesterday... Maybe Jesus needed him in Heaven this Christmas!
May Eternal Rest be granted unto him and perpetual light shine. May his soul, and the soul of the faithful departed, rest in peace.
My husband and I used to volunteer at St. Augustine thanks to John . He brought us in and it was very fulfilling. After my husband passed away John always asked how I was. He showed compassion to everyone who he came in contact with. To the family I am so sorry for your loss. Blessings to all of you.
John was such a good friend and spiritual leader to me. He truly exemplified what it is to be a messenger of the Word. I recall John visiting my husband in the hospital after hours. He told the nurses that he was his brother! Short, Mexican John was my 6 foot White husband's "brother". He was truly a brother to me and many more. Rest John. I will miss you and always remember the all the wonderful things you have done. De Colores
As the second pastor of St. Julie's, I was truly blessed to have Deacon John at my side for the Saturday Vigil Mass for 10 years. Deacon John was a very honest, sincere and humble man. His style of preaching the Word of God was from his heart. John knew his savior, loved his family and found joy in all his ministries. Although I am retired, I will miss him and will continue to pray for his family. What a wonderful individual with which I had the pleasure to minister. His smile, laughter and acceptance of the work at hand broadened my spirituality and love for the ministry of the church. Rest in Peace dear servant of the Lord!
