Maria L. Rivera, age 55, of Portage passed away Saturday February 9, 2013 in her home surrounded by her loving family. Maria was born June 9, 1957 in Guadalajara Mexico to Alfred and Alicia (Salazar) Sanchez. She married Rafael Rivera on July 23, 1995 in East Chicago, Indiana. She had retired as a loader from Mittal Steel prior to her illness. She is a member of Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church. She loved her family, sewing and shopping.
She is survived by her Husband Rafael of Portage; mother Alicia Sanchez of Highland; two daughters Alicia N. (Steven) Lunn and Victoria M. Rivera both of Portage; one grandson Matheu Lunn of Portage; a sister Lucy Sanchez of Highland; four nephews Mike, Mark, Brian, and Eric Mercado; and a very special friend Yolanda Corral.
She was preceded in death by her father Alfred Sanchez.
A funeral service will be celebrated Wednesday February 13 at 1:00 p.m . at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Ave., Portage with Father Andrew Corona officiating. Visitation for Maria will be Tuesday February12, 2013 from 2-8 p.m. at the funeral home with a 4 p.m. prayer service at the funeral home. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery.
Maria's Family wishes to extend a Special Thank You to the Porter County VNA Hospice for their devoted care.