Catarino Rivera Jr.

Catarino Rivera Jr., 65, of Ballinger, Texas, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

He was born on February 3, 1960, to Catarino and Anjelita (DeLaCerda) Rivera Sr., in Ballinger, Texas. Catarino married Joanna Fry on February 3, 1999. Catarino Rivera spent many years working in the oil fields on drilling rigs, a career that reflected his strong work ethic and dedication. After retiring from oil field life, he continued to stay busy, working at several local pizza establishments, including Pizza Hut, Pizza Inn, and CiCi’s Pizza, where he was known for his reliability and friendly presence.

In his free time, Catarino enjoyed watching classic Western films, especially those starring John Wayne. He loved being outdoors, often found tinkering with his vehicles or working in his yard, even when a bad knee made the task challenging. Catarino also cherished time spent sharing drinks and laughter with his friends and family, creating memories that will be fondly remembered by all who knew him. Catarino was known for his stubbornness, roaring laugh, and exaggerated eye rolls.

Catarino is preceded in death by his parents Catarino Rivera Sr. and Angelita Jalomo. His wife Joanna, brother Mario Rivera, sister JoElda Jalomo.

He is survived by his daughters, Jaslyn McDuffee and husband Chad, and Jessica Mata and husband Tommy. Sons, Catarino Rivera III, and Joshua Rivera and wife Tiffany. Grandkids, Ryan, Justin, Donovan, Riehanna, Jayden, Nathan, Alana, Chaz, Cade, Amaya, Divad, Kiara, Kyler, Madison, Bryla, Jersey, Beau, Emma, Reagan, and several great-grand children, His brothers John Joe Rivera and wife Kris, Oscar Rivera and Frank Jalomo. Sisters, Anna Martinez, Becky Cavazos and husband Eddie, and Irene Jalomo, as well as several nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his special friend, Fedencia Quiroga Martinez.

A rosary will be held for Catarino on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at 2:00 pm, at Lange Funeral Home in Ballinger, Texas.

The family wishes to thank Michelle Aguilera and the staff at Hospice of Ballinger for their prompt service, patience, and kindness in ensuring our dad was well cared for in his final days.