"I loved 'Lando like a brother, not just a brother in law. He would make me laugh whenever he was with my husband. The two of them together was hysterical. But when they sang it was beautiful to hear. I will miss his silly, loveable spirit. He is with his predeceased family and making them laugh now. Good bye dear heart.."
In loving memory of
Orlando Rivera
May 19, 1950 - January 17, 2024
Orlando Rivera
"Lando"
How can we describe Lando? Neighbors say he was hardest working person they ever met. Colleagues remember his laughter, practical jokes and singing - and Oh! What a beautiful voice he had! His wonderful caregivers at both The Village at Unity and St. Ann's Home called him the Gentle Giant. Family and friends who knew his life story know he was a true survivor. For Franny - the Love of Her Life.
Lando is predeceased by his parents - Ramon and Matilda Rivera; Franny's parents Peter and Angelina Cartella; siblings Nelson, Alfonso, and Amilta Rivera, and Sandra Hansen; children Jose Torres, Jolanda Dorsey, and Jose Rivera; and nephew Paul Cartella. He is survived by his life partner - Frances "Franny" Cartella; fur-babies Pica and Papo; siblings Homero "Yayo" (Ada) Rivera, Hilton "Hito" (Gigi) Rivera, Velma "Beima" McCadney, and Vernon "Bucci" Rivera; Franny's siblings Mary and Peter (Jane Webster) Cartella, and Phyllis (Greg) Siembor; children Michelle Neal and Orlando (Terra) Rivera; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and friends; and a very special friend - Julie Polizzi - who brought Lando and Franny together.
Calling hours will be held at Bartolomeo and Perotto Funeral Home, 1411 Vintage Lane in Greece, NY on Wednesday, January 24th from 9a until 11a; with a memorial service immediately following. A private internment for family will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Sickle Cell Disease Association of America or your local pet shelter.