Henry James Rivas

Henry James Rivas, born June 24, 1947, in Des Moines, Iowa passed away on January 31, 2024, at age 76.

He opened Henry J’s Taco House with his parents in 1973. Henry J’s became a sponsor of men’s fast pitch and Henry was inducted into the Des Moines Softball Hall of Fame in 1988.

After 32 years, he retired from the City of Des Moines Public Works Dept. He was a member of the Mustang Club of Central Iowa, Mustang Club of America, Saleen Club of America, Iowa Street Rod Association, and Good Guys.

He was preceded in death by his parents Lupe and Lucille Rivas and brothers, Dominic, David, and Timothy. Survivors include his wife, Linda; children, James (Christina Leone), Jennifer (Shane Halvorson), and Cody (Paige Harpin); grandchildren, Ayrahbella Leone, James J., Elianah and Emmie Leone-Rivas, Esther and Walter Halvorson and Myla, Paloma and Lupe Rivas; brothers, Antonio (Carol) and Christopher; and many nieces and nephews.

The family will greet friends on Tuesday, February 6, 2024, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with the Rosary prayed at 7 p.m. at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home, 5400 SW 9th Street. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Wednesday, February 7th at 10 a.m. at Christ the King Catholic Church, 5711 SW 9th Street. Henry will be laid to rest at Glendale Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Christ the King Catholic Church in loving memory of Henry.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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