Joseph Robert (Joe) Rivas passed away on August 18, 2026 after a courageous battle with cancer. Joe was born in Lancaster, CA to David Rivas Sr and Mary Jo Saylor on September 18, 1971. He was raised in Oxnard, CA and considered it, along with Ventura, CA, where he last resided, to be his hometown.
Joe had many interests. He was passionate about music, particularly hardcore punk and its local scene in Oxnard and surrounding areas known as Nardcore. As a musician and songwriter, he performed in several bands, including Burning Dog and Out of Trust. He loved sci-fi, and had an encyclopedic knowledge of Star Wars. His interest in computers and technology at an early age became a career in IT that spanned decades. He loved the Dodgers and the Lakers. He enjoyed discovering new vegetarian restaurants and recipes. He loved travelling and going on adventures with friends and loved ones. This included travelling around Europe while stationed in Italy with Meadow. Joe and his family spent many happy summer days in Kings Canyon National Park. But Joe's top interest was in his family and community. He felt it was important to make sure everyone was comfortable and having a good time. He loved hyping people up and helping people out.
Joe was devoted to and is survived by his wife, Meadow, and his son Ethan (Zoe). He is also survived by his parents, brothers David Jr (Jerrica), and Daniel, and sisters Melinda (Simon), Elizabeth (Skylar) and Blaire, and numerous nieces and nephews. He had a close friendship with his mother-in-law, Deb. He maintained close relationships with a wider circle of aunts, uncles, and cousins. Joe also remained close to many friends reaching all the way back to his earliest school days. He loved you all, and made sure you knew it.
Joe was a treasure. He brought an abundance of light. He stayed curious and hopeful about the world throughout his whole life. Joe was kind and forgiving. He was humane and full of love.
Joe was incredibly generous and gave to many charities, causes, and people in need, so in lieu of flowers please donate to your favorite charity or cause, lend a helping hand, and keep Joe's memory alive.
A celebration of life will be held at Poinsettia Pavilion in Ventura, CA on September 26 from 11:00am to 3:00pm. A memorial concert will be announced at a later date.