Michael Rivera , 46, lifelong resident of Salem, NH passed away peacefully following a brief illness on July 30, 2024 while in Kentucky. He was born in Methuen, MA a son of the late Bernard "Benny" Rivera of Salem, NH and Donna Lefarve. He was a graduate of Salem High School, Class of 1996 and remained close to the Salem community for the remainder of his life.

Michael was an incredibly talented singer and song writer, known to most of us for his profound lyrics, incredible voice and talented presence. Michael was also always the funniest guy in the room and typically only spoke in movie or song quotes. His laugh was infectious to all of those around him. He was a huge Red Sox fan, and followed them closely with his dad Benny. He remained a kid at heart right until the end with his absolute love of Star Wars and Marvel and DC comics . Michael was an incredibly dedicated friend to the people in his life and always sought to put those around him at absolute ease. His shining presence in all our lives will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his brother Jack Rivera and his wife Sheryl of Derry, NH, his nephews Nicholas Rivera and his fiancé Devan of the North End, Boston and his nephew Jason Rivera, and his wife Jacki of Derry, NH. He also leaves behind his great- nieces Charlie and Mariana Rivera, his Auntie Lovey of Stoneham, MA, his girlfriend Angela Kerr of Richmond, Kentucky, many cousins, an amazing group of close friends and an even larger group of fans. He was predeceased by his sister Maria Rivera, aunts, uncles and cousins as well as his best friend/cousin/confidante Butch Belair.

Visitation will be held  Sunday, August 11 from 11:00am - 2pm at Douglas and Johnson Funeral Home, 214 Main St., Salem, NH with a few family and friends preparing to share remembrances at 1:15. Immediately following there will a musical celebration of life from 3:30-6 pm at the Tupelo Music Hall, 10 A St. Derry, NH. All are invited to listen to some of Michael's music, as well as performances by his best musician friends.