| Graduation Year | Class of 1975 |
| Date of Passing | Oct 17, 2011 |
| About | Robert William Rives, 53, passed away peacefully October 17, 2011. Robert, "Robbie", or "Mr. Rives" was a popular teacher at Millikan High School for 7 years. He worked for the Long Beach Unified School District for 17 years. He received his Bachelor's Degree from Virginia Tech as a Hokie and obtained his Masters in Education at Cal State, Dominguez Hills. Robbie was definitely one of a kind. He marched to a different drummer and always chose the road less traveled. Being a father was his most coveted role. Recently, he became a grandfather and looked forward to his eventual retirement in Panama. The outdoors was his paradise. He loved surfing, fishing, snowboarding, camping, reading, and traveling…all activities that were enhanced by time shared with his family. As a teacher, he was able to fulfill his destiny and embrace the hearts and minds of young people. His students were a constant inspiration to him. He is preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Katie Rives as well as his nephew, Jack Rives. He sadly leaves behind his son, (Robert) Jeffery Rives, grandson, Austin Kian Rives, brother, Jeffery Rives, sister, Beth Rives Zelms, nephews, Andy Gerringer and Rhett Rives, and niece, Sara Gerringer-Demeria. Rosemary Hernandez remains both his best friend and co-parent of their beloved son, Jeff. Many other extended family members and far-reaching friends lament his departure from this earth. A memorial service will be held at Earl Burns Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach, Saturday, October 29 at 9:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to the Robert William Rives Scholarship Fund at Millikan High School, Long Beach. Please sign the guest book at www.presstelegram.com/obits or www.heritagememorialservices.com. |
