Honor Daniel’s Wishes & Support Michaela
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I’m creating this fundraiser in honor of my mother Michaela’s husband Daniel Levi Rivera, to help support her after his sudden and unexpected passing. Daniel was a proud Navy veteran, a man of prayer, and someone whose wit, curiosity, and storytelling could light up any room. Daniel and my mom met later in life at church, after she had been widowed for more than 25 years. Their shared love for God brought them together, and they built a life centered on faith—studying scripture, praying daily, and encouraging each other in their walk with Him. They enjoyed simple, meaningful moments together: cooking meals, tending to their garden, and watching home improvement shows. My mom is currently working toward her doctorate in education, and Daniel was pursuing a degree in nutrition—often studying together at home. Their marriage was full of comfort, laughter, and mutual care. My mom was Daniel’s devoted caretaker, and he was her source of encouragement, joy, and unwavering companionship.
Just hours before Daniel’s passing, my mom had a frightening encounter with an aggressive dog in her neighborhood that left her shaken. Combined with the heartbreak of losing her husband, it has become clear to us that she needs to relocate to be closer to family for safety, support, and healing. At the same time, my mom must relocate from Moore, Oklahoma, to Broken Arrow by Monday the 18th—while also preparing to start her college courses on the very same day. Daniel’s final wish was to be buried, not cremated, and we are determined to honor that request. Unfortunately, no arrangements were made in advance, and funeral costs must be paid in full before any arrangements can move forward. Our hope is to lay Daniel to rest at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, a place that reflects his service and legacy.
Your support will help cover funeral and burial expenses, moving costs, basic living expenses, and counseling for Michaela as she starts this new chapter. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help lift some of the weight my mom is carrying. If you’re unable to give, simply sharing this fundraiser will help us reach others who may be able to help. On behalf of our family, thank you for your kindness, compassion, and prayers as we work to honor Daniel’s wishes and help my mom find stability and hope in the days ahead.
Just hours before Daniel’s passing, my mom had a frightening encounter with an aggressive dog in her neighborhood that left her shaken. Combined with the heartbreak of losing her husband, it has become clear to us that she needs to relocate to be closer to family for safety, support, and healing. At the same time, my mom must relocate from Moore, Oklahoma, to Broken Arrow by Monday the 18th—while also preparing to start her college courses on the very same day. Daniel’s final wish was to be buried, not cremated, and we are determined to honor that request. Unfortunately, no arrangements were made in advance, and funeral costs must be paid in full before any arrangements can move forward. Our hope is to lay Daniel to rest at Ft. Gibson National Cemetery, a place that reflects his service and legacy.
Your support will help cover funeral and burial expenses, moving costs, basic living expenses, and counseling for Michaela as she starts this new chapter. Any contribution, no matter the size, will help lift some of the weight my mom is carrying. If you’re unable to give, simply sharing this fundraiser will help us reach others who may be able to help. On behalf of our family, thank you for your kindness, compassion, and prayers as we work to honor Daniel’s wishes and help my mom find stability and hope in the days ahead.
Organizer
Marisa Mitchell
Organizer
Broken Arrow, OK