RICARDO MADRID RIVERA, age 88, of El Paso, Texas, passed away peacefully at his home on Thursday, September 17, 2026. Born February 2, 1938, in Anthony, New Mexico, to Josefina Madrid and Jose Jesus Rivera, Ricardo lived a long life marked by service, devotion, and deep family bonds.

After completing high school, Ricardo proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served with unwavering honor and dedication, including two tours in the Vietnam War. Over more than twenty years of distinguished military service, he embodied the values of discipline, loyalty, and integrity principles that continued to guide him throughout the rest of his life.

Ricardo is survived by his wife, Lorenza R. Rivera, of El Paso, TX; his four sons, Richard Allen Rivera (Norma) of El Paso, TX, Kevin Rivera (Angie) and Steven Rivera (Becky) of Las Cruces, NM, and Greg Rivera (Debbie) of Bloomfield, NM; and his daughter, Carmen Forrer, of Oklahoma. He is also survived by his brother, Reynaldo “Ronnie” Rivera of Benson, AZ, and his sister, Josie Rivera of Vail, AZ.

Ricardo leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great‑grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and extended family who will forever cherish his memory. He is also survived by his step‑children: Rosario Estrada, Janet Caba, Mario Jimenez, Veronica Jimenez, Luis Raul Carasosa, and Armando Jimenez; as well as his step‑granddaughter, Zella Chavez.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife and the mother of his children, Barbara; his second wife, Ramona; his daughter, Rita Rivera; three sisters, Mary Lou Ochoa, Lupita Christensen, and Rosa Cardenas; and five brothers, Jesus “Chuy,” Raul “Luly,” Ruben, Ramon “Moni,” and Dules Nombres “Lutie” Rivera

Ricardo will be remembered as a man of quiet strength, unwavering dedication, and deep love for his family. His legacy of service and devotion will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Visitation will begin at 6 PM Thursday, October 8, 2026, at Baca’s Funeral Chapel, 300 E. Boutz Road with the Prayer Vigil at 7 PM. The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11 AM Friday, October 9, 2026, at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, 1240 S. Espina Street in Las Cruces. The Rite of Committal and Interment will follow at 2:30 PM at Fort Bliss National Cemetery 5200 Fred Wilson, El Paso, TX.

Military Honors will be accorded by the Holloman Air Force Base Steel Talons Honor Guard.

Service arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Baca’s Funeral Chapels of Las Cruces, 575-527-2222. Your exclusive provider for “Veterans and Family Memorial Care.” For online condolences logon to www.bacasfuneralchapelslascruces.com