Luis Rivera

Springfield, Missouri

Luis Rivera, 67 years, 3 months, 9 days old, passed away on October 12, 2025, at his home. He was born July 7, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois to Alfonso and Olga (Rodriguez) Rivera.

Luis was raised in North Chicago, where he graduated from high school. During his school years, he excelled as a gymnast alongside his brothers.

Luis was known by many as a devoted lover of God. His faith ran deep—like roots drinking from living waters. Those roots became the foundation of his family tree, as he passionately shared the Gospel with everyone he loved. Because of Luis's steadfast commitment to his faith, countless people, both within and beyond his family, have been grafted into the family of God.

His faith was unwavering. Even as trials pressed upon him, he never let go of the old rugged cross. It was his anchor, his comfort, his sacred place of surrender.

His prayers were songs, his songs were offerings, and his voice rose like incense before heaven's throne. When Luis sang, it wasn't for applause or recognition — it was for the audience of One.

His faith was not polished or perfect; it was raw, steadfast, and real — the kind that wrestles and yet still believes, that clings even when hands grow weary, and that, even in the valley, still whispers, "It is well with my soul."

Luis was a gifted musician who loved to sing and play the guitar and piano. It was often said that any instrument he touched, he could learn with ease. He lived his life before that same audience of One, offering his music as worship.

Now, in the presence of the One he loved most, his song continues.

Luis was preceded in death by his parents, Alfonso and Olga Rivera.

Luis is survived by his children; Amina (Andrew) Sundberg and Nehemiah (Christina) Rivera; grandchildren, Maddox Emilio, Gabriella Addison, London Eva-Grace, Azaliyah Israel-Ryne, Elijah Rising, Leonidas Zadok, McKenzie Drew-Faith, Truitt Justice, Victoria Emily-Rose, Maverick Nico, and precious baby Rivera; siblings, Angel Rivera, Vidal Rivera, John Rivera, and Emily (Rivera) Ulmer; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

Funeral services for Luis will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Clinkingbeard Funeral Home in Ava, Missouri, with burial to follow in the Ava Cemetery. Officiating will be his children.

Memorial contributions may be made to Ronald McDonald House.