Juan Rivera

Weslaco: Juan Jose Rivera, 70, passed away on Saturday, April 22, 2023, at McAllen Medical Center. Juan was born on March 19, 1953, to Jose and Josefa (Vallejo) Rivera in Weslaco, Texas. He and his ten siblings grew up in Weslaco.  

At a very young age, Juan worked along with his family as a migrant farm worker. In his younger days, in 1972, Juan worked at Valley Mart. Juan participated in the Chicano movement. He was a part of MAYO, La Raza Unida, Teatro Jacinto Trevino, and vice president of The Weslaco Chicano Youth Center. Juan played football for the Weslaco Panthers #64 and was a proud member of the graduating class of 1973. He was the 1st in his family to graduate from high school. He met his soulmate, Martha Garcia, and they were married on March 6, 1976.  

He then decided to pursue his education. Juan attended Knapp Memorial Methodist Hospital Nursing School and earned his LVN in 1975. Juan went to work at Knapp Medical Center, where he immediately realized that nursing was his true calling. Juan returned to school and graduated from Pan American University with his Registered Nursing Degree (ADN). in 1984. He was the 1st in his family to graduate from college.  

Juan’s career at Knapp was exciting; his co-workers became like a second family. Juan quickly earned notoriety at Knapp and in the mid-valley for his commitment to excellence and compassionate care. Juan was promoted often and worked as the Medical Floor and Hemodialysis nurse manager. In 2002, he was promoted to House supervisor. Everyone loved working with Juan, not only because he was a great nurse, but his charisma and upbeat personality were a welcoming relief, especially when the twelve-hour shifts were exhausting and stressful. He ensured everyone ate well and started with a fresh cup of coffee. Juan was integral in creating the “work family” environment that boosted everyone’s spirits. One of the traditions that Juan initiated was the Friday “potluck.” The employees would all bring a dish to share, and this wasn’t limited to the nursing staff; the doctors, lab technicians, and all employees were invited to indulge.  

Juan had a heart of gold, and patients and their families appreciated his impeccable nursing skills. Moreover, he served out of love and genuine empathy. Many still recall Juan’s gentle and caring personality.  

While working at Knapp, Juan also worked at MHMR and Charter Palms, a psychiatric hospital. Even though the drive was taxing, Juan’s commitment to his profession and dedication to serving triumphed, and he worked tirelessly at both hospitals. Juan retired after nearly forty years of service to Knapp Medical Center and the community.  

He then operated El Gallito Adult Day Care, Inc. and had his own home health agency, Five Star Quality Home Health, Inc., in 2003. The work was gratifying, and he absolutely loved his patients.   

When Juan wasn’t working, he enjoyed spending his summers camping with his family. One of his favorite vacation spots was the Guadalupe River and Gruene. He also loved to try his luck at the casinos. Las Vegas was another favorite getaway. Juan and Martha took each of their three children to Vegas for their 21st birthday.   

Juan remained loyal to his alma mater, and when he wasn’t working on Friday nights, he would be cheering on the Weslaco Panthers. He also loved watching the Dallas Cowboys on Sundays and barbecues with family.  

Juan was Catholic, and his faith was unwavering, even when he became ill. He was also a dedicated member of the Knights of Columbus. He spent countless hours volunteering and making lifelong friends.  

Juan is preceded in death by his parents, Jose and Josefa Rivera; siblings, Matias Sanchez and spouse, Elfida, Raul Rivera and spouse, Juanita, Santos Saenz, and spouse, Hector and Amelia Rivera; niece, Cristina Rivera, and nephews, Michael Leal and Ruben Guajardo.  

He is survived by his loving wife, Martha Rivera; children, Orlando, Lorena, and Venessa Rivera; siblings, Catarina Saenz (Ezequiel+), Hortencia Cuellar (Calixtro+), Guadalupe Rivera (Lupe), Raul Rivera (Irma), Francisco Rivera (Cindy), and Hilda Moreno (Margarito), and numerous nieces and nephews.  

We want to give a special thanks to all the wonderful staff at McAllen Heart Hospital, Solara Specialty Hospital, and McAllen Medical Center (ICU). 

Visitation will be Wednesday, April 26th, 12-9 pm, with a 7 pm rosary at McCaleb Funeral Home. Visitation will continue on Thursday, April 27, at 10 am, followed by Mass at St. Joan of Arc Catholic Church at 2 pm. Juan will be buried at Weslaco City Cemetery.