Linda Louise Rivera

Linda Louise Rivera, 68, went to be with our Heavenly Father on Saturday, July 11, 2020 at home with her family by her side in Topeka, KS.  She was born August 31, 1951, in Topeka, Kansas to Trinidad and Rachel Chavez, and was the eldest of six brothers and a sister.  She was a graduate of Highland Park High School.

Lovingly known as the “voice of Topeka Public Schools,” she had been answering phones as a receptionist for District 501 for 22 years and until her retirement in 2011.  Additionally, she followed her career in public education by joining her brothers and sister in the family business, Chavez Restoration & Cleaning in Topeka, Kansas.  Linda will always be remembered for her warmth, her care, her kind heart and as a soother of the soul as a woman of wisdom. She gave selflessly unto the Lord, family, friends and others. She was the epitome of “family” and was an epic cook and party planner.  Her cooking creations were a special event for her kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews. She concocted the most delicious and creatively designed desserts which she lovingly shared with everyone. Her Easter and Halloween parties will always be remembered.  Her other hobbies included sewing (especially costumes), writing, the love of music and family vacations.  She will always be remembered as a guiding force to her family with an amazing smile that conveyed to all how much she enjoyed life.

She is survived by her children Danielle (Brian) Hoover of Missouri City, TX; Debra (Steve) Reese of Topeka; Anthony Vasquez of Kansas City; Christina (Jeff) Eddy of Liberty, MO; Teresa Vasquez of Topeka, and stepsons Matthew and Aaron Rivera of Topeka.

Linda is preceded in death by a daughter, Angela Vasquez, and father, Trinidad Chavez and mother, Rachel Chavez. Survivors include sister Rachel Martinez, Topeka and brothers Richard (Christy) Chavez, Topeka; Daniel (Carla) Chavez, Lawrence, KS; David (Sarah) Chavez, Olathe, KS and Luis Chavez, Topeka.  Linda has nine grandchildren Rachael (27); Bryce (24); Donicia (23); James (22); Sabrina (20); Isabella (17); Catalina (13); Eva (12); Trinidad (6) and one great grandchild, Nona (3).

Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, July 24 at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.  Memorial contributions may be made to the Linda Louise Rivera Estate at US Bank, 3003 S.W. Van Buren, Topeka, KS 66611.