NORWICH – Paul R. Rivera, 63, most recently of Norwich and formerly of New York City, passed away July 18, 2006 at his home.
The son of Jose and Demetria (Rivera) Rivera, Paul was born in Humacao, Puerto Rico, on June 30, 1943. He spent his youth in Puerto Rico and obtained his education there. Upon coming to the United States, Paul lived in New York City and entered the United States Marine Corps, where he became proficient with the rifle and earned the designation “sharp-shooter”. Following his tour of duty and his honorable discharge in April 1962, he returned to New York City where he worked as a detective in law enforcement. Paul subsequently left that field to join E.I.O. Local Union 15 in Manhattan, working as an engineer. Of the projects he was involved with, the best known would be the construction of the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center. Paul retired from the union in 1994 and relocated to Norwich in 1995, where he lived with his wife Sonia. Paul was considered a very kind and gentle man who enjoyed life. He was an avid hunter, a life member of the NRA, and just loved to plant fruit trees.
Paul is survived by his wife, Sonia Rivera; by his children: Evelyn Rivera of Norwich; and Joey, Tony, and Paul Rivera, Jr., all of New York City; by his step-children: Benjamin Calderon of the Bronx, Ruth Calderon of Norwich, and Elaine Calderon of Queens; by 14 grandchildren; and by his sisters, Annie Rivera and Maria Estel Rivera.
Paul was predeceased many years ago by his older brother.
Memorial services for Paul will be held on Sunday at 1 p.m. from the R. J. Fahy Funeral Home. The Rev. Douglas Cunningham, Pastor of the Church of the Holy Apostles, will officiate. Friends are invited to call at the R. J. Fahy Funeral Home on Saturday from 6 - 9 p.m.