Robert Allen Rivers, 80, of Haverhill, MA passed away Thursday, April 20, 2017, surrounded by his loving family at Penacook Place in Haverhill. Robert was born in Haverhill, MA November 8, 1936, the son of the late Harland and Ethel (Smith) Rivers. He attended Haverhill Schools and graduated from Haverhill Trade School in 1954. Robert served twenty years in the United States Navy as an Aviation Boatswain Mate. He was a veteran of both the Korean and Vietnam wars having been awarded the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Navy Expeditionary Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Good Conduct Award and the National Defense Service Medal. Robert retired in 1975 from the military after honorably serving for over two decades. He enjoyed working in the antique business after retirement and was a lifelong resident of Haverhill. Robert gave much of his life to serving his country and he will be dearly missed by his family and friends.
Robert is survived by three sons; Jeff Rivers and wife Karen of Fremont, NH, Robert Rivers and his long time girlfriend Cathy Eldredge of Bradford, MA and Scott Rivers, two daughters; Denise Mouncey of Summertown, TN and Barbara Mann and husband Robert of Hohenwald, TN. He also leaves behind his brother; William E. Rivers and wife Carol , one sister; Helen I. Quinney of Whitefield, NH, the mother of his children; Barbara Rivers of Haverhill, seven grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.
Calling hours will be held Monday, April 24, from 4-6 pm at The Grondin-Carnevale Funeral Home 129 Kenoza Avenue Haverhill, MA 01830. A graveside service with military honors will take place Tuesday, April 25, at 11:00 am at Walnut Cemetery in Haverhill. Online condolences may be made by visiting www.GrondinCarnevale.com.