Obituary for Dolores "Lola" Marie Rivera

Lola gained her angel wings on November 6, 2023 surrounded by her family. Born December 7, 1965 to Ernest P. and Maria P. (Cardenas) Rivera. Lola was a 1984 graduate of Portland High School and a dedicated State of Michigan Employee for more than 30 years.

Lola was a woman of many talents. She was an artist, musician, parent, and grandparent. Lola was a very creative person. She showcased her artistic abilities via many mediums and was always on the search for her next project. Art was her passion and she shared it with all she could.

Lola was well known for her singing and musical talent. She shares her love of music with her family and friend groups. She was a long-time Karaoke host, put-on Open Mic Nights, held Jam Sessions in her garage, and shared her voice to the music ministry at St. Patrick’s. She loved entertaining with music and being surrounded by her musician friends and family. She was always trying to learn new tunes on the guitar and flute. We gain peace in knowing her voice is now in the chorus of angels.

The one thing Lola loved more than anything was being a mother and grandmother. Family was mom’s way of life. She loved watching her kids grow-up and spending time with them as much as possible. She raised her kids to be loving of all and she was so proud of all they have accomplished. She loved her parents and siblings so much and always loved hearing what they or their kids were up to.

Lola was a great friend and always left people smiling or laughing. She was always making sure others were taken care of and made to feel welcome. She was full of life and chose happiness as often as possible. May the joy she brought others continue to bring us comfort during this time.

Lola is preceded in death by her father Ernest P. Rivera, many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Lola is survived by her four children: Nicholas Carroll, Brandon Lawler, Zachary Lawler, and Marriah Lawler; grandchildren Christopher Carroll and Myles Carroll; her mother Maria P. Rivera; siblings Linda Rivera, Mary Ann (Scott) Schafer, Cynthia Rivera, Ernesto Rivera, Ramon (Kerri) Rivera, and Lucinda (Robert) Gallaway; many nieces and nephews; significant other Doug Dutcher. In addition, Lola leaves behind many cousins, two aunts, three uncles, and an innumerable amount of friends. We will miss her dearly and hope the joy of her life continues to provide us peace and comfort. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 12:00 p.m., Friday, November 10, 2023 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Portland. The family will receive friends 2:00-4:00 and 6:00-8:00 p.m., Thursday at Lehman Funeral Home, 210 E. Bridge St., Portland. The rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. For those wishing, memorial contributions may be made to St. Patrick Music Ministry in honor of Lola. Online condolences may be made to www.lehmanfuneralhomes.com.