Mariano Antonio Rivera Quiles

Mariano Antonio Rivera Quiles, affectionately known as “Tony” or “Mario,” passed away on October 14, 2026, at the age of 85. Born on December 8, 1940, in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Mariano most recently resided in the Mulberry/Dacula, Georgia, area, having previously made his home in Maitland, Florida, and Chicago, Illinois.

Mariano lived a remarkable life marked by determination, intellectual curiosity, generosity, and a deep love for his family. Following the loss of his father at a young age, he helped his mother raise his younger brothers and sisters, demonstrating early in life the devotion and sense of responsibility that would remain central to his character.

With little more than a single suitcase and a scholarship, Mariano came to the United States to pursue his education and build a future. He studied physics and chemistry at the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico and The Ohio State University, computer science at the University of Chicago, and earned his MBA from Nova Southeastern University. His intelligence and dedication led to a successful career in technology, including positions as a computer programmer and analyst with Computer Horizons Corporation, a senior specialist with AT&T, and a project leader with IBM. Following his retirement from IBM in 2002, Mariano pursued another passion, becoming a Realtor with Watson Realtor Corporation and investing in real estate.

A man of many interests and talents, Mariano had a lifelong appreciation for learning, literature, and the arts. He was a published poet, participated in a poetry club, and was a member of Toastmasters International. He enjoyed reading, writing poetry, bowling, swimming, traveling, and listening to Puerto Rican music. A devoted science fiction enthusiast, he especially loved Star Trek and Star Wars, along with classic Westerns. He was also an enthusiastic sports fan who cheered for the Ohio State Buckeyes, Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Cubs.

Mariano embraced life's pleasures, both large and small. He traveled throughout the United States, including Hawaii, and visited Spain. He particularly enjoyed trips to Las Vegas, where he could try his luck at the slot machines, and loved treating family members to visits to Disney World in Orlando. He took pride in his beloved red Jaguar and enjoyed spending time with friends, often sharing a meal at a favorite buffet.

A talented cook, Mariano delighted in preparing traditional Puerto Rican dishes, including pasteles, pernil, arroz con gandules, tostones, and arroz con dulce. He also enjoyed growing tropical fruits and root vegetables in his backyard, including pineapples, avocados, papayas, and yams. These interests reflected his enduring connection to his Puerto Rican heritage, which he carried with pride throughout his life.

Beyond his many accomplishments, Mariano will be remembered most for his generous heart and the genuine care he showed others. He volunteered with Chicago Public Schools, advocated for individuals experiencing homelessness, and lovingly served as a caregiver to his younger brother Ramon and his dear friend Phyllis Smith. He had a special affection for dogs and cats and found great joy in the companionship of animals.

Those who knew Mariano describe a kind, loving, sociable man with a wonderful sense of humor and a smile that could brighten any room. He expressed his feelings openly, made others feel valued and important, and offered his family a lasting sense of love, safety, and security. His friendships were meaningful, his generosity sincere, and his presence a source of comfort and happiness.

Mariano was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Zoetta Rachel (Sinden) Rivera, whom he married on October 1, 1966; his parents, Mariano Rivera Degro and Agustina Quiles Montalvo de Rivera; his brothers, Gerardo “Guiso” Rivera Quiles and Ramon Rafael Rivera Quiles; and his sisters, Felicita Rivera Quiles de Rodriguez, Lourdes “Hilda” Rivera Quiles de Alvarado, Agustina Rivera Quiles de Mendez, and Carmen Edith Rivera Quiles.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Marietta Zoana (Rivera) Houser and her husband, Shawn, and Andrea Renee Rivera; his sister, Esmeralda Rivera Quiles de Perez; his brothers, Carmelo Rivera Quiles and Francisco Rivera Quiles; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and extended family members.

Mariano's life was a testament to perseverance, compassion, and the importance of family. From his humble beginnings in Puerto Rico to his many professional achievements and the countless lives he touched along the way, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, laughter, and love. He will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.