Cynthia Joan Rivers, age 62 of Gladstone, passed away peacefully on Sunday afternoon, December 30, 2018, at her daughter’s home in Green Bay, surrounded by her loving family.
Cindy was born in Marquette, Michigan on May 6, 1956, the daughter of Albert and Frances (Casimir) Williams. She was raised in Gladstone and was a graduate of Gladstone High School.
On May 26, 1973, Cindy was united in marriage to the love of her life, Edward Wyatt Rivers, and together the couple made their home and raised their family in Gladstone. After raising their three daughters, Cindy and Ed, adopted their grandson, Ashton.
Cindy worked at Delta County Solid Waste Management for 23 years where she was lovingly known as the “dump lady”. She made many friends throughout her work life and always greeted her customers with a bright friendly smile. Cindy retired from the landfill at the end of 2017 when her family relocated to Green Bay.
Cindy was a kind, strong, and spirited person. She had a deep love for her family and treasured each and every moment spent with them. She truly found joy and excitement in EVERYTHING, every adventure, every bite, every beach, every cocktail, every campground, every casino, every back road, every concert, every sunny day, every game of cards, every holiday, every popsicle, and every completed crossword puzzle. She was a lifelong Green Bay Packers fan, even through the rough years. She loved traveling and exploring new places. Cindy was an avid hunter and looked forward to hunting season spent at deer camp each year, where she almost always shot a bigger Buck than her husband, Ed. She was always the first one at a party and the last one to go to sleep; afraid she was going to miss something. Even though her years here on earth may not have been long, Cindy squeezed so much life into each minute. She was rare, beautiful, and unique. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
In addition to her loving husband of 45 years, Ed, Cindy is survived by:
Daughters: Angel Smith, Julie (Trevor) Wahl and Melissa “Boo” Rivers
Sisters: Connie Downing, Julie (Gary) Machinski and Eileen (Terry) Gustafson
Grandchildren: Arianna, Delaney, Ashton, Olivia, Colton, Adeline, Owen, and Emmett
Great Grandson: Jack
Special Friends: Jolly and Sheila
Also listed among the surviving family are many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Cindy’s parents, Albert and Frances and her brother, David Williams preceded her in death.
Cindy’s family will receive friends on Friday January 4, 2019, from 2:30PM to 5:30PM, at the Skradski Funeral Home in Gladstone. Mass of Christian Burial will follow visiting hours on Friday, at 6:00PM, at All Saints Church in Gladstone, with Rev. Fr. Jamie Ziminski officiating. Luncheon will follow in the All Saints Fellowship Hall. Cindy will be laid to rest in the Perkins Cemetery in the spring. The Skradski Family Funeral Homes of Delta County are assisting with arrangements.
Per Cindy’s request, bright colored clothing is welcome at the services. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be directed to Cindy’s family for a memorial fund to be established in the future.
Barbara Krout DePree - Lapeer, MI
One of God’s greatest mischief makers has just been unleashed on heaven.
My earliest memories are of Cindy and our little “escapades” never dangerous….but definitely not condoned by Ruthie or Fran.
I am thankful she is at peace, but grieve for Ed, her sisters, family and friends who will feel the void she leaves behind. What a tough character she was, Cindy knew suffering, but endured it with grace and almost always with a smile. I am glad she was my sister/ friend for 60 years.
Kathy Maynard - Gladstone, Mi
Gary and I send our thought and prayers. Cindy was a wonderful person and will be missed. God Bless Cindy and her family.
Gary and Kathy Maynard
Cheryl Bernard - DeTour Village, MI
Dear Eddie & Family,
Words can not express how very sorry I am for your loss of Cindy. Not only did I think the world of her in high school, but I thought the two of you were the best couple, ever! Through the years, I haven’t been able to see or “run into you guys” very often, but when I did it was always the best. Please know that all of you continue to be in our thoughts & prayers.
Rest in peace, Cindy.
~Cheryl & Dennis
Alex, Shirley, and Kayla Norton - Frankenmuth, MI
Thinking of Cindy’s family during this difficult time. Especially Julie, Gary, and the rest of the Machinski family.
Mary Ann Sinclair Vito - Rochester Hills, Mi
Sending comforting thoughts and hugs to all who love Cindy. Her smile and kindness was always with her and shared with all blessed to know her. I want to get in my car and drive to Gladstone to celebrate Cindy’s life with each of you. Cindy has earned her wings and will continue to love and guide her family.
Donna kalishek - Kincheloe, MI
Ed and family,
What a beautiful obituary for a beautiful person. Gary and I often wonder how Cindy was doing and praying for a happy ending. We are so sorry for your loss. Wish we could be there with you at this time. Gary and Donna
Missy Micheau - St. Paul, MN
I’m so so sorry for your loss. One of my favorite memories with Cindy was Boo’s graduation party. She threw her arm around my shoulders and We sang “school’s out for summer,” (quite obnoxiously)! She put a smile on the face of everyone she met, and she loved you all fiercely. My heart is with you all!
Cheryl Stanek - Gladstone , MI
We are so very sorry for your loss. Cindy was a bright spot in the world! Her smile was never ending and warmed the hearts of all who were the recipients. She was a sweetheart and truely lived and enjoyed life to the fullest.
Our hearts are with her family,
Dennis and Cheryl Stanek
Sheila Packard - Gainesville, GA
My husband and I met Cindy, Ed, and Julie at Bellin when we were there for our grandson. We found out we were long lost family and had to cram a lifetime into about an hour. I’m so sad I didn’t get to spend any more time with her, because I know we would have been great friends! Ed is a quiet steady man just like my husband, and Cindy was so pretty and funny! I wish I’d known about the “garbage lady.” My moniker was “the drug lady.” I think she would have gotten a kick out of that. RIP in God’s arms, sweet lady❤