Genaro Medina Rivera Sr. passed away into eternal grace on the evening of Saturday, June 15, 2019. A man of strong faith, he held his beloved rosary until his very last breath. He was born in Cidra, Puerto Rico on September 19, 1933, the youngest son of Braulio Medina and Maria Rivera. Genaro, or "Geno" as he was known to many, graduated from Jesus Pinero High School in Cidra before enlisting in the United States Army. Following his honorable discharge after serving his country, Genaro made his way to Springfield, MA where he would meet the love of his life, raise his family and become an essential part of the Latino and Catholic community.

Genaro started his career as a factory worker, before becoming on of the first Latino Auxiliary Police Officer for the Springfield Police Department. He later changed gears and became an employment specialist at various non-profit agencies such as Brightwood Development Corporation, Springfield Chamber of Commerce, the Urban League and New North Citizen's Council. Shortly thereafter, based on his deep-rooted faith, he received the calling to serve God at a higher level and studied to become a deacon. As one of the first Latino Deacon's within the Diocese of Springfield, Genaro proudly served the Diocese for over 30 years.

Sadly, he was predeceased by his loving wife Gregoria (Gloria); parents Maria and Braulio; brothers; German Serrano, Nateve Medina, Alfonso Medina and sisters; Maura, and Josefina.  He is survived by his brother Juan and sister Natividad. His memory will be cherished by his three sons: Edwin Medina of Springfield, Orlando Medina and his wife Lorie Medina of Ludlow and Genaro Medina Jr. and his wife Anne Morales Medina of West Springfield along with grandchildren; Ashley, Amanda, Vanessa, Michael and Gabriel Medina and two great grandchildren, Jeyren and Dylan. In addition, Genaro will be sadly missed by his many loving nieces, nephews, cousins and godchildren and all the parishioners from his parish the Blessed Sacrament Church.

Everyone who knew Genaro will miss his sense of humor, quick wit and sage advice. He could be counted on to lend an ear or shoulder, listen and find a way to make sense of it all through faith and humor. He was an avid Boston Red Sox fan and loved his scratch tickets. He will be missed.

Calling hours will be held on Wednesday, June 19, 2019 from 4 PM- 7PM at Blessed Sacrament Church on 440 Waverly Street Springfield, MA. The funeral mass will be held at Sacred Heart Church on Thursday, June 20, 2019 at 1:0pm in Sacred Heart Church on 387 Chestnut Street Springfield, MA followed by burial at St. Michael's Cemetery.