Domingo C. Rivera

Domingo C. Rivera, 55, of Wood River, NE, passed away peacefully on Tuesday October 13, 2026, at CHI Health St. Francis in Grand Island, NE. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 11am on Monday, October 19, 2026, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Wood River with Rev. Jorge Canela and Rev. Stanley Madubuike celebrating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Cemetery in Wood River. A Visitation with the family present will be at the church on Sunday from 5 to 7pm, with a rosary service starting at 7pm. The family expresses their gratitude for all of the love and support they have received. Online condolences may be left at www.apfelfuneralhome.com.

Domingo was born on August 4, 1971, in Grand Island to Maria C. Rivera and Zenon Rivera Sr.

He was a proud graduate of Wood River Rural Jr./Sr/ High School. He built a successful career as a pipe fitter, a job that was more than just work to him; it was his passion. He later started his own home improvement company as well as his own trucking company. Outside of his professional life, Domingo was an avid outdoors man who enjoyed woodworking, hunting, and fishing. His love for the land extended to farming and ranching, where he found peace and purpose. Despite his love for his work and hobbies, his true joy came from being a provider and protector for his family. From his first marriage came four children who made him the proud father he is.

Domingo was known as a man of vibrant passions, his larger than life persona, and being a skilled craftsman who could fix anything. He found joy in the simple pleasures of life – listening to his favorite music, the tranquility of fishing, and the excitement of hunting in his younger years. Above all, his favorite hobby was ensuring his family was always taken care of and surrounded by love.

Domingo is survived by his wife, Alejandra Samaniego; children: Domingo Rivera Jr., Antonio Rivera, Joanna Rivera, and Jasmine Rivera; mother, Maria C. Rivera; siblings: Mary H. Rivera, Pedro Rivera, Rosamaria Rivera, Geneva Rivera-Ruzicka, Lupe Rivera, and Josephine Rivera; many nephews and nieces; beloved nephew, Lucas Rivera; and his seven cherished grandchildren.

He is preceded in death by his father, Zenon Rivera Sr. and two infant siblings.

Domingo will be remembered for his love of family, dedication to hard work, and his passion for life. His legacy will live on through his family, the people he worked with, and everyone whose life he touched. Our hearts are heavy but filled with gratitude for the life he lived and the love he shared.