Woonsocket – Gilbert A. “Gil” Rivera, 57, of Woonsocket died Wednesday June 9, 2021 at HopeHealth Hospice Care Center in Providence. Born in Woonsocket he was a son of Gilberto “Chico” and Liberty (Rosario) Rivera. He was a resident of Woonsocket for most of his life. Over the years Gil also lived in North Attleboro, Pawtucket and Burrillville.
Gil worked as a professional painter for A. Morin & Son painting as well as being a self-employed painter. He also worked in the floor covering trade.
Gil enjoyed exercising and working out to maintain his fitness. Gil was an avid motorcycle enthusiast, taking a trip anywhere on his motorcycle was right up Gil’s alley. Gil also had a special affinity for horses. He could play a good hand of cards, especially pitch.
Gil will be remembered as a loving brother. He genuinely felt blessed by those in his life he counted as family and friends.
Gil is survived by his parents and his longtime companion Debbie White. Gil was the father of Anthony Archambault, Andrew Staples, Bryson White and Dylan Dessert. He was the proud grandfather of Aaliyah. Gil is also survived by his brother Darrell J. Rivera and his wife Maria of Cumberland, Debra “Debbie” Bellini of Burrillville and her late husband Mario Bellini, who passed away in January 2021, and Liza Turcotte and her husband Raymond of North Smithfield. Gil was the uncle of the late Specialist Matthew R. Turcotte, U.S. Army who passed away in August 2017. Gil is also survived by his extended family of nieces, nephews and cousins.
Private arrangements for Gil are in the care of the Menard-Lacouture Funeral Home, 127 Carrington Ave. Woonsocket.
www.menardfuneralhome.com