Andres Claudio "Andy" Rivera

Andres “Andy” Claudio Rivera, beloved father, husband, grandfather, and great-grandfather passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at the age of 97, in St. Augustine, Florida. Andy was born in Vega Baja, Puerto Rico, on February 16, 1927, to Modesta Claudio and Andres Rivera. Andy was a man of great integrity, kindness, and warmth, who touched the lives of everyone he met. He married twice, first to our beloved mother, Cristina Crespo, with whom he shared many beautiful years and had nine children: Andy Jr., Ronnie, Joanna, Ivan, Cindy, Amy, David, Linda, and Ricky. Later, Andy found love again and married Zaida Vazquez, a woman who brought immense joy and companionship into his life. Together, they built a loving home and extended their family, enriching the lives of everyone around them. Andy was a devoted and loving father, always there with a kind word and a guiding hand. His battle with Alzheimer’s in recent years never diminished his bright light and warmhearted personality. He faced every medical challenge with a smile and a nod. His caring heart left a beacon of hope for all who knew him. A proud US Army veteran, Andy served during the Korean War. He had a passion for understanding how things worked, was always inventing and tinkering, was great with numbers, and spent countless hours finding inventive new solutions for both real–and perceived!–problems at home and work. After retiring from the Army, Andy found a perfect match for a second career at the Panama Canal Commission, working the locks on the Panama Canal. He was also a singer, a dancer, and a consummate joke teller. His legacy of love, generosity, and dedication will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. Andy is survived by his nine children, their partners, offspring, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren - too numerous to count. He is also survived by his siblings Ruth, Roberto, Wanda, and Nurinalda. Andy will be deeply missed but always remembered with love and fondness. Andy will be honored at a graveside ceremony at the Jacksonville National Cemetery at 4083 Lannie Road, Jacksonville, FL 32218 on Friday, July 26, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Folds of Honor, a scholarship program for America’s fallen or disabled soldiers and first responders.

Andres Claudio "Andy" Rivera

February 16, 1927 - July 14, 2024