Obituary of Manuel Rivera

MANUEL RIVERA, JR., 66 of Freehold died Friday, September 4 after a brave two year struggle with Stage 4 squamous cell carcinoma, prior to fighting two years of bladder cancer which was in remission.  Manuel was always a fighter and will be remembered for his ability to overcome the many obstacles he faced in life.  Born and raised in East Harlem, NYC, he resettled in Freehold in 1980.   He was a beloved and well respected residential preservation manager and maintenance supervisor for the Stonehurst Condominium Association for over 15 years. He also helped build Freehold Raceway Mall. His love and passion for music played a strong role in his life.  He played numerous instruments including the trumpet, trombone and was a dedicated conga player.

Manuel was preceded in death by his parents, Ana Maria and Manuel Rivera.  He is survived by his children Cassandra, Jillian, son-in-law Kittysuk, Manuel Jr., Marisol, Jonathan, Victor, Michael, Tiarra, his grandchildren Arianna, Christian, Raymond, Jocelyn, Brooklyn and sister, Sandra and brother-in-law Peter.  We thank all who were Manuel’s friends and support including Theresa Heinzmann and especially his daughter, Tiarra, who dedicated the last two years of her life caring for her father through the hardest portion of his cancer journey.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 12 from 1-4p.m.at the  Freeman Funeral Home, 47 East Main Street in Freehold.  To find directions or leave a message of condolence, please visit our website at www.freemanfuneralhomes.com.