It is with deepest sadness that we announce that Gene E. Rivers, 85 years old, passed away September 2, 2020.  He was a loving Father, Grandfather, Great-Grandfather, and Brother and the beloved sweetheart of his wife, Paula Piemonte Rivers, whom predeceased him 8 months earlier.

Gene was born in Weehawken, New Jersey on January 1, 1935.  Gene quit high school to enter the Air Force at 17 years old after his father passed away.   He was the eldest of the 4 brothers.  He married our mother, Paula in 1956 after returning from his first enlistment.  Gene served in the Air Force for 22 years.  During his time of service he was present for Queen Elizabeth's Coronation and he was one of the service men that located the Pueblo.  He also served in Fire Department for 24 years as Fire Chief at Pine Castle Fire Department and Deputy Fire Chief at Reedy Creek Fire Department.  He obtained his Bachelor Degree all while serving in the Fire Department and Training students at Valencia Jr. College.  After retiring in 1997, Gene and his wife spent many years cruising which is what they enjoyed the most.

Gene was a man of service and he did whatever he could to help humanity which included financial contributions to many charitable organizations.  He was loved by many and was spoken about with the utmost respect.   He was remembered as the "Best Fire Chief" and when his name "Chief Rivers" was mentioned he was always held in high regard.

Gene is survived by his loving children, Laura Sajeski and son-in-law, Mark Sajeski, his son, Glenn Rivers, 4 grandchildren Jessica Leigh Strong, Victor Perez, Kaley Rivers, and Ashley Perez Sanchez and 2 step grandchildren John Sajeski and Heather Scott.  He leaves behind his lovable great-grandchildren, Jordan, Aiden, Alyssa, Zoey and Rose and his brothers Gary and Gilbert Rivers.  Gene was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Paula Rivers, his father Edward Andrew Rivers, his mother, Helen Clark Rivers and his brother George Rivers.

Gene knew our mother since she was a little girl of 5 and they were married 64 years before she passed this year.  Their love is an "eternal love" that was stronger than the pull of his family here on earth.  They are now in the arms of one another "together forever".     He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.  Until we see you again.

A celebration of life will be held for family and friends on Saturday, September 19, 2020, from 11:00 am -12:00 pm at Aloma Church 1815 FL-436, Winter Park, FL 32792.   There will be a time of visitation for friends to offer their condolences prior to the service from 10:30-11am.  In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations to the Cancer Society www.cancer.org .