UNITY -- Joseph Patrick Riavez Sr. of Unity passed away in Waterville on Thursday, Oct. 14, 2010, at 9:56 p.m. at the age of 78 with his wife and family at his side.
Joseph was born in Linden, N.J., on March 17, 1932. He was the only child of Nobile and Louise (Piccoli) Riavez. Joseph enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17, serving on the USS Albany during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged with the rank of seaman apprentice.
Joseph worked at Castle Bakery, and then purchased it from his friend, changing the name to Five Queens Bakery after his five daughters. Years later he moved on and was employed by Lithuanian & Butter Cake Bakeries. He was a member of the American Legion, Bakers Union Local 50, and Business Secretary of Bakers Union Local 3 and 64 for New York and New Jersey.
Joseph enjoyed bowling with his wife, daughter, son-in-law and friends prior to becoming disabled in 1991. Joe was a die-hard Yankees and Giants fan. In his later years, he enjoyed passing time by watching the game-show network and "The Golden Girls," mowing his lawn, playing Uno with his family and playing Solitaire and Vegas on his computer.
Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Nobile and Louise Riavez; his daughter Suzanne Riavez; and granddaughter Marylin Riavez.
He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 58 years, Beverly Jane Riavez (Landry); his son, Joseph Riavez Jr.; daughters Donna Regaj and Michelle Schindler; son Mitchell Riavez and his wife, Maryellen; daughter Denise Works and her husband, Keith; daughter Lori Bertram and her husband, Raymond; son Keith Riavez; daughter Kelli Riavez; 18 grandchildren; and 29 great-grandchildren.
A private family service was held at Lawry Brothers Funeral Home.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Joseph's name to better serve our veterans: c/o Voluntary Service (135) Togus VAMC, 1 VA Center
