Dolores Marie Anderson- Rivera

Ladies and gentlemen, family and friends,

Today we gather to honor the extraordinary life of Dolores Marie Anderson-Rivera, a remarkable woman whose spirit and tenacity will forever resonate in our hearts. Born on March 13, 1946, in Evanston, Illinois, Dolores was a beacon of joy and resilience, traits that earned her the affectionate nickname "D.J." – Dolores Joy.

Dolores's life journey began in a family that understood the value of hard work and determination. Raised by her mother and grandparents who bravely fled the turmoil of Russia, Germany, and Poland, she inherited a legacy of perseverance that shaped her character. Her father's lineage, rooted in Scottish and Dutch history, added another layer to her rich heritage, connecting her to a lineage of strength that fought for the Union in the Civil War and paved the way across the west during the westward expansion. Dolores embodied that spirit throughout her life.

From a young age, she embraced the responsibilities of family, helping to raise her two younger siblings while balancing her studies. Her education took her from an all-girls Catholic school to DePaul University, where she continued to shine. Starting her career as a waitress at just 14, Dolores learned the value of dedication and service early on, a lesson she carried with her as she navigated the challenges of single motherhood and a burgeoning career.

Dolores faced the world with a smile, managing to break barriers in a male-dominated industry. As the only female lead garage foreman at an Illinois Bell line yard for the field operations division, she climbed telephone masts with the ease of a lumberjack and managed endless successful projects while protecting the backs of her team. Thus, earning the respect of her peers through her wit, intelligence, leadership, and hard work. Her ascent to the role of Midwest regional manager for ATT was not just a testament to her professional accomplishments, but a reflection of her remarkable ability to lead, mentor, and inspire those around her.

Her commitment to family remained unwavering. Dolores was not just a mother; she was a cheerleader at her son's sporting events, a fishing companion, a screaming fan at his concerts, and a planner of cherished vacations for family and friends. She was also a daughter who took care of her mother lavishly till her final days. Her generosity knew no bounds, as she selflessly provided for families in need during the holidays and through the year, ensuring that joy reached those who needed it most.

In her retirement, Dolores continued to shine, opening a Keller Williams brokerage with her son and nurturing the next generation of real estate professionals and serving her fellow real estate investors. Her travels to South America to deliver wheelchairs to children in need and continued volunteer work and donations showcased her unwavering dedication to making the world a better place, even into her later years.

Dolores's legacy is one of love, strength, and unyielding optimism. She was a guiding light and a sanctuary for her family, a doting aunt who truly adored her nieces, a loving grandmother who cherished her grandchildren, and a friend and inspiration to many. Even in her final years, facing the challenges of amputation and glaucoma, she continued to uplift those around her with her indomitable spirit and zest for life.

As we remember Dolores, let us carry forward her lessons of kindness, resilience, and the importance of family. She leaves behind a legacy that reminds us to embrace joy, to work hard, and to uplift others. Though she may have left this world on March 9, 2026, her laughter, love, and light will continue to echo in our hearts.

Thank you, Dolores, for being a guiding star in our lives. You have shaped us, inspired us, and shown us the true meaning of joy. We will carry your spirit with us always.

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