Harry Rivas

It is with great sadness that the family of Harry Rivas, of Rockville, MD, announces his passing on November 15, 2019 at the age of 89. Harry was born on April 11, 1930 in San Antonio, Texas to Virginia and Tomas Rivas. He was the fifth of seven children. He came from a musical family, taught himself guitar and often sang with his brother and sisters.

At the age of 18, Harry joined the Marines. He rose to the rank of sergeant and served as an artilleryman in the 1st Division during the Korean War. He fought in the Battle of Chosin Reservoir. After being discharged, and having worked as a draftsman in San Antonio, he relocated with his family to the Washington D.C. suburbs in 1964. He worked as a cartographer at the U.S. Government Defense Mapping Agency until retirement. 

Harry was a kind and humorous family man who much enjoyed singing and playing the guitar.  

Harry is survived by his beloved wife of 66 years, Jesusa “Sue” Rivas, son James Rivas, daughters Sylvia Morgan (and husband Alan), Christine Lane (and husband Joe), Sharon Levin (and husband David), and Sandra Rivas. Harry is also survived by four grandchildren, Shannon and Ian O’Rourke, and Austin and Liberty Lane.

A private memorial service and burial will be held on November 22, 2019.