Jose Antonio “Tony” Rivera, 75, of Johnstown passed away at his home on July 2, 2026, surrounded by family.

He was born February 11, 1951, in Fabens, Texas, to Ignacio “Nacho” and Maria “Kika” (Nevel) Rivera. He spent his early childhood in Denver City, Texas, before moving to Johnstown in 1955. He was part of a large family of 10 children and loved every minute of it. When they made their home in Johnstown, he knew this was where he wanted to be. 

Tony was a hard worker from an early age. He worked in the fields with his family and always had a job, doing whatever he could to help his parents and siblings. He found satisfaction in their shared labor and in his time with them. During his high school years at Roosevelt, he enjoyed playing basketball and baseball and spending time with his siblings and cousins. His love for baseball and softball continued well into his adult years. When he was not playing, he was coaching. 

Throughout his life, Tony worked in a variety of roles before settling into the career he loved, field adjusting for State Farm. He was a mentor to many and helped countless customers throughout the years. After traveling the country for years to respond to major catastrophes, Tony took early retirement from State Farm to pursue his lifelong dream of owning his own restaurant. He wanted to share his mother’s recipes in the community he loved. In 2012, he opened Nacho y Kika’s Café which he proudly named after his parents. He had a servant heart. He offered meals, shelter and jobs to anyone in need. Tony never turned anyone away. He donated countless meals to local churches and charities. He lived by example.

Tony appreciated time with people. He was a staple at all the various celebrations for family and friends. He enjoyed playing pool any chance he had. He especially liked traveling to Las Vegas for tournaments. He was a passionate Denver Broncos fan, an avid gardener, and skilled handyman. He loved his family deeply and unconditionally. His love, wisdom, stories and humor will be forever etched on the hearts of his children and grandchildren. He was so proud of his grandchildren and was always up for a foot race to show everyone how fast Grandpa is. 

Thankful and blessed to have shared his life are his children, David (Nikki) Rivera, Jaime (Nathan) Valencia, Anthony Rivera and Mathew Rivera; and his six grandchildren, David, Dax, Isaac, Israel “Izzy,” Nathan II and Isaiah. He is also survived by his siblings, Jesse (Cecelia) Rivera, Soki (Ernie) Vasquez, Gloria (Frank) Cantu, Johnny (Yolanda) Rivera, Olivia Bais, Irma Crespin and Sally (Elijio) Grado; brother-in-law, Manuel Lozano; and sister-in-law, Mercy Rivera; and Tio Raul Ramirez as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family and countless friends he considered family. He was preceded in death by his parents as well as siblings, Leopoldo Rivera and Lupe Lozano.

Visitation was held July 14 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church, in Windsor, with a Recitation of the Rosary following. Mass of Christian Burial was July 15 at Our Lady of the Valley Catholic Church. Interment at the Johnstown Cemetery. A reception followed at Grace Community Church.

Memories may be shared at youngsfunerals.com.