Our beloved mother and grandmother, Maria “Bonnie” Rivera, peacefully passed away at home with her family by her side on September 17th, 2026.

Bonnie was born Maria Delia Salazar on October 18, 1943, at 422 Sycamore Street in Santa Paula, California, to Guadalupe Salazar and Josefa Luque Salazar. She was the last surviving child of 13 siblings.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her loving husband of 62 years, Benjamin T. Rivera. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised their four children: Benjamin Rivera, Michael Rivera, Veronica Rivera, and Rosanna Rodriguez.

She is also survived by 12 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren, whom she loved and cherished deeply.

Bonnie held a very special place in the hearts of her many nieces and nephews, who loved her dearly and will always remember her as an inspiration and a matriarch of the Salazar family.

She also leaves behind a proud legacy as a career woman. Bonnie helped organize the Citrus & Avocado Credit Union for packinghouse employees and later worked in management for Sunkist Growers until her retirement.

A proud and dedicated member of the Women of the Moose in Santa Paula and Ventura, Bonnie served in many positions throughout the years and earned numerous degrees through Moose International, including serving as Past President of the Council of Higher Degrees. Through the Moose, Bonnie made countless friends who became family. She treasured the many friendships, memories, and good times she shared with members of Moose Lodges throughout District 14.

Bonnie also loved to travel, especially to Laughlin, Las Vegas, and Reno, where she enjoyed many wonderful trips with her husband, family, and friends.

Bonnie was preceded in death by her father, Guadalupe Salazar; her mother, Josefa Salazar; her brothers Manuel, David, Guadalupe Jr., Leonard, Joe, Johnny, and Francisco; her sisters Estella Arellano, Irma Lamey, Alice Herrera, Ida Mariscal, and Belen Whittenburg; and her grandsons Isaiah and Issac Ramos.

Above all, Bonnie will be remembered for the love she had for her family, the friendships she treasured, and the lasting impression she made on the many lives she touched. Her legacy will continue through her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, extended family, and all those fortunate enough to have known and loved her.

Our family extends our heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support given to our beloved Bonnie and to our family throughout this difficult time. We are deeply grateful to everyone who loved her and shared in her life.