Pete D. Rivera

Pete D. Rivera passed away Wednesday, October 31, 2012 at the age of 91. A proud native son of San Pedro, CA., Pete was born to Andre`s and Maria (Diaz) Rivera October 23, 1921. Pete grew up in the Barton Hill area of San Pedro, where he made life long friendships. After high school Pete started his full time career working as a merchant seaman. During his 30 years in the Maritime he travelled the world numerous times and through out his lifetime would regale family and friends with stories of his adventures mixed with those of boyhood antics in San Pedro. In 1945 he was honorably discharged from the United States Coast Guard for service in the 'American Merchant Marine in Oceangoing Service during the Period of Armed Conflict'. On January 31, 1948 Pete married Mary Etta Quick in Walden, NY. They settled in New York till 1961 making their way across country with their 3 children in their 53' Chevy. Pete and Mary Etta found residence in Torrance, CA and never left. After retiring from the Maritime trade he worked as chief steam engineer for Rockwell International until his final retirement in 1986. During retirement he became a neighborhood fixture with his daily dog walks, was a conscientious volunteer at San Pedro's Mary Star of the Sea Christian Care continuing his life long nature of generosity and care for those in need. A member of the San Pedro Elk's Lodge #966 for 30 years he and Etta enjoyed longtime friendships and its social activities, especially dining out with family and friends. Pete was a dedicated and loving father and grandfather. He will be dearly missed by his family. Pete is preceded in death by his wife of 57 years Mary Etta. He is survived by his daughter Karen Rivera, son-in law Rick Young of Torrance, CA; son Craig, daughter-in-law Janice of Camarillo, CA and son Keith, daughter-in-law, Laurie Romano of Santa Barbara, CA. Pete leaves behind grandchildren, Alana, Briana, Colette and Andre. Pete's family would also like to thank his companion and caregiver, Ike Lloren, for his dedication and loyalty these past 6 years. Service will be held Saturday, November 10 at 11:00am., Green Hills Memorial Chapel, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA. In lieu of flowers please send donations to the Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay.

Funeral Home:
Green Hills Mortuary and Memorial Chapel
27501 S.Western Ave.
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
US 90275