Arturo Zapata Rivera (87) of Silver City, NM, passed away on April 3, 2026, in Pittsburgh, PA. Born on March 24, 1939, to Matias Rivera and Guadalupe Zapata Rivera in Fierro, NM.
Art was best known for his exceptional work ethic which he instilled in others. Art grew up in Hanover, NM and attended local schools. He joined the New Mexico Army National Guard a year before he enlisted in the U.S. Navy, worked as an electrician, for five years of service before honorably discharged.
Art worked as a commercial cement mason and later in his career as a carpenter. He was a proud union member, Cement Masons for 61 years and Carpenters for 35 years. Prior to retirement, Art was a general foreman responsible for foundation work on numerous Cogen power plants along the U.S. west coast.
Art is survived by his children Carmen Herrington, Richard Rivera, Maria Rivera, stepchildren Della Lopez, Lisa Lopez, Ray Lopez, three generations of grandchildren, brothers Matias Rivera, Manuel Rivera, Frederico (Fred) Sauceda and sisters Lupe Audette, Margaret Spicer and Lydia Ice. Preceded in death by his eldest son Arturo C Rivera, brothers Emilio Rivera, Merejildo (Chino) Rivera, Jose Rivera and sisters Mary Flores, and Virginia Rivera.
Funeral services will be held Friday, April 24th at 11:30 a.m., 10:30am viewing, at Terrazas Funeral Chapels with Pastor Tim Heyer officiating. Concluding service interment will follow at Fort Bayard National Cemetery with full military honors. Pallbearers are Donnell Caldwell, Diego Chavez, Robert Fuller, James Herrington, Emilio Rivera Jr., and Richard Rivera.
Arrangements are with Terrazas Funeral Chapels "Trusted care for the ones you love" ~ 575- 537-0777. To send condolences, visit www.terrazasfuneralchapel.com.
