Nelson Antonio Rivera

Nelson Antonio Rivera, 79, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2024 at Yale New Haven Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Son of the late Thomas Rivera Hilerio and Regalada Rosado Rivera, Nelson was born on August 14, 1944 in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Nelson was married to the love of his life, Elizabeth P. Rivera, for 26 joyful years. Nelson moved with his family from Puerto Rico to Connecticut at age 5, and was raised in Bridgeport before settling in Milford as an adult where he lived the rest of his life. Nelson retired as Head Clerk at the Metro North Railroad, where he proudly worked for over 40 years. He was an active member of the Knights of Columbus, St. Joseph’s Men’s Society, Bridgeport Historical Society, and the Milford Police Citizens Academy. Nelson expressed his love for his family by cooking elaborate meals and laughing around the dinner table. His most requested recipe was his famous pepper pork with rice and beans. Unwaveringly generous of spirit, Nelson made many friends along the way. He had an amazing sense of humor and loved to laugh with his wife Elizabeth and their many friends. Above all, Nelson was the devoted patriarch of his family and cherished spending time with his wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As his family grew and he became a grandfather many times over, he was lovingly referred to as “Popie,” “Buf,” and “Grandpa” depending upon which grandchild called out for him. He was a wonderful husband, loving and devoted father and grandfather and will be deeply missed by all who had the honor of knowing him in life. In addition to his beloved wife, Elizabeth, Nelson will be lovingly remembered by his children Cheryl (Michael), Nelson II (Lisa), Adam (Olga), stepson Richard, and stepson Christian ( Jennifer). Nothing made Nelson more proud than bragging about his children and their families. He will be missed by his 12 grandchildren: Jessica (Chris), Michael (Ashley), Bryan (Gina), Jason, Audrey, Sophie, Aiden, Nelson III, Olivia, James, Alexandra, and Joshua. He also leaves behind 6 beloved greatgrandchildren: Luca, Giada, Madison, Mia, Lina, and Bryan Jr. He will be missed by his 4 siblings: Marion (Matt), Dolores, Albert ( Janice) and Carmen, as well as his “honorary son” Todd Minor, and many nieces, nephews and family and friends. Nelson is predeceased by his sister Rosa, brother Thomas, and nephew Luis. Family and friends are invited to gather on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the Cody-White Funeral Home, 107 Broad St., Milford. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday May 7, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at Saint Mary Church (Precious Blood Parish), 70 Gulf St., Milford (MEET DIRECTLY AT CHURCH). A private burial will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship in Nelson’s name has been established through the Knights of Columbus. Checks can be made out to the “Santa Maria Council 14546”, mailed to “In honor of Nelson Rivera, c/o Patrick Eisenman, 349 Haystack Hill, Orange, CT 06477. To leave online condolences, please visit our website at www.codywhitefuneralservice.com.