Son-in-law remembers Robert Rivas for his ‘sharp intellect, well-timed jokes, magnetic personality’
By Harry Go Jr.
Bob was a true role model in every sense. His incredible work as a public servant is undeniable – someone who stood as a pillar of integrity and leadership, as well as a person who cared deeply about others. His reputation preceded him in every room he stepped foot in. Decades after his term in office, friends and acquaintances would still greet him lovingly as “Mayor,” evidence of his enduring impact on the community.
As his son-in-law, I saw these same qualities amplified in his personal life. He loved his family, and was ferocious in the way he protected, mentored, nurtured, and supported his two daughters Natalie and Renee, along with his wife Marjorie. I had a front row in witnessing the hours of conversations he would have with them, always giving sage advice with compassion and a dose of expertly placed humor and sarcasm. His life was a masterclass in being a good father and husband.
Having him as part of my family was a privilege. Holidays and special occasions were always filled with lively political conversations, smiles, and a strong sense of unity. I am lucky to have a father-in-law who was also great friends with my own family. From the moment they met, there was an organic kinship between my parents, Harry and Dely, and Bob. Whether it was reminiscing about the Philippines or laughing about inside jokes, there was no shortage of memorable moments. I will always be grateful for that.
There is a clear through-line in the way Bob lived publicly, personally, and with his extended family. Simply, he was someone who brought people together. He was that unique element that allows for alchemy to emerge. He was a unifying ingredient – someone who turned the things, people, and places around him into golden memories.
He was someone I respected immensely, and I will miss his magnetic personality, his sharp intellect, his well-timed jokes, and most importantly his loving presence.
Harry Go Jr. is an independent film and TV producer. His latest documentary feature with A24 titled “Nuisance Bear” premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival and won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize for Documentary. He is married to Bob Rivas’s daughter ReneéRivas.
A service honoring Robert Rivas’s life will be held on May 2, 2026, at Bergenfield Borough Hall, 198 N. Washington Avenue, Bergenfield, N.J., from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Robert’s memory to the Democratic National Committee or Hackensack University Medical Center Heart and Vascular Hospital.
