Manuel D Rivera Soto

Manuel D. Rivera Soto, 75, of Brooklyn, New York, passed away peacefully on May 4, 2026, at Kindred Hospital in Rahway, New Jersey.

Born on December 31, 1950, in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, Manuel was the beloved son of José Patricio Rivera and Monserrate Soto. He carried his Puerto Rican roots with pride throughout his life, embracing family, tradition, and hard work as guiding principles.

Manuel was a devoted husband to his loving wife, Nora Rivera (Otero), and a proud and caring father to his daughter, Nora. His family was the center of his world, and he found his greatest joy in providing for them and sharing in life’s everyday moments together.

Known affectionately as a true “jack of all trades,” Manuel had a remarkable ability to fix, build, and create just about anything. He was especially proud of his ingenuity with machinery, famously crafting and working with equipment that made pasteles—bringing both innovation and tradition together in a way that reflected his resourcefulness and love for his culture. Like a real-life MacGyver, there was no problem too big or too small for Manuel to tackle.

Manuel will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his clever hands, and his unwavering dedication to his family. His presence, wisdom, and quiet strength will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

Professional arrangements are under the care and direction of Scarpa Las Rosas Funeral Home, 22 Craig Place North Plainfield, NJ 07060.