Cruz Rivera

1933-2019 It is with much sadness the family of Cruz (Crusita) Rivera announce her passing on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at her home surrounded by her loving family after losing her battle with dementia. She was predeceased by her husband, Pedro Rivera, her parents, and brothers, Paquito, Ramon, Eusebio and Cesar Ruiz. Crusita was employed by William Carters, Gemini, Springfield Public Schools as a teacher’s aide at Brightwood School, US Envelope and the Salvation Army. Her greatest love was sewing for her family and friends. She made onesies, pajamas and Halloween costumes for her grandchildren. She made her daughter-in-law and her 2 daughter’s wedding gowns. She was well known for being able to make alterations to just about anything. Her family was very important to her. She enjoyed making dinner and calling her working children to come and pick up a hot meal to bring home to their family. She was a deaconess of the Seventh Day Adventist Church. After services on Saturday, she would visit hospitals and nursing homes to pray and sing to the sick. Even when her health was failing, she didn’t slow down. Crusita was a giving and caring person. Her family wants to thank her PCA’s that took great care of her: Lady Ortiz, Carmen Torres, and Gianina Velez. We would also like to thank the church volunteers, Maria (Alicia) Rosado, Hilda Figueroa and Rita Acevedo, who gave their time and love to make sure our mother was comfortable. Her doctors that always treated her with so much kindness and respect: Dr. Jeffrey Scavron, Dr. Kirchhoffer, and Dr. Steingart. Her nurse Cynthia Shelley who offered comfort to our family. Hospice staff that were so amazing and their compassion made it easier for us during this difficult time. Crusita leaves her children: Myrna Rivera-Sablak(Ed), Annie Rivera (CK), Pete Rivera(Alicyn). Grandchildren, Damon & Chelsea Rivera, Michael Hebert, and Eddie & Jennica Sablak. Calling hours for Cruz will be held at Puerto Del Cielo Funeral Home, 730 State Street, Springfield, MA on Monday, November 18, 2019 from 4pm-7pm. Friends and family are asked to gather at the funeral home on Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at 9am. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that memorial contributions be made in her name to Springfield Hispanic Seventh Day Adventist Church, P.O. Box 80598, Springfield, MA, 01138.