Donald Maldonado Rivera's Obituary
Donald Maldonado Rivera of Miami, Florida passed away on May 17th 2022. His passing was unexpected, but peaceful. At the moment he was called home by the Lord God, he was surrounded by family and received the comfort of spiritual leaders. He was 74 years old.
Donald was born on September 14th 1947 to Martin Maldonado (father) and Maria Rivera (mother) in Ponce, Puerto Rico. He was the youngest of ten children that his parents had together. After graduating from high school, Donald served his country during the Vietnam Era in the United States Army from 1966 to 1968. He earned a National Defense Service Medal for Marksmanship and an Honorable Discharge from the Army. He went on to study at the University of Puerto Rico, where he earned an Associate’s Degree in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. He worked for many years in this field and even became an A/C repair instructor for Plan Zeta for a few semesters. He enjoyed this position very much and was well-loved by his students. In 1981, Donald began working for the United States Immigration and Naturalization Services. He began his career with the government at Fort Allen in Puerto Rico. In late 1982, he transferred to Miami, Florida and worked at the Krome Detention Center in Tamiami. While working with INS, he earned the rank of Lieutenant and retired in 2004. Donald continued to work and was currently employed by Allied Universal Security Company, where he worked as a security officer for the Metrorail at the Vizcaya station.
In 1971, Donald married the love of his life, Vivian Malave Quiñones, in their hometown of Ponce, PR. As children, they lived on the same street; Vivian lived in the first house and Donald lived in the last house on the block. They met properly as young adults, fell in love and married. Through thick and thin, Donald and Vivian went on to build a life together for 50 years.
Donald was a simple man, with simple pleasures. He loved to go fishing, to watch old movies, especially westerns, and to watch/attend the Marlin games. Donald was a man of strong character and faith, but also had a quirky sense of humor. He had a delightful laugh and a gentle smile. His nature was kind and generous. He was especially loving to the many pets his family would have over the years. Donald will be remembered as a good and faithful husband and father; as well as, an honest, hardworking and honorable man. Donald is survived by his wife, Vivian, his daughter, Marines and his son, Donald Jr.
Services for Donald will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church - 145 NE 10th St Homestead, FL 33030 - on Monday 5/23/2022 at 4:30 pm and at Branam Funeral Home - 809 N Krome Ave Homestead, FL 33030 - on Tuesday 5/24/2022 from 9 am to 5 pm.
Donald will be greatly missed by family and friends, but his legacy will live on in those that loved him. God bless him with eternal peace.
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