Fundraiser Started For Fallen Paterson Firefighter, Wayne Man

WAYNE, NJ — Rena Rivera summed up the way people will remember Kerry James Rivera, her high school sweetheart and husband of 25 years very simply.

"To know him was to love him."

Rivera, a township resident and Paterson Fire Department veteran, died after falling off a cliff while bicycling Monday at Mills Reservation in Essex County. Police reported that Rivera, 49, died after he fell 20 feet onto to a rocky ledge while riding his bike near the edge the road.

RELATED: Wayne Bicyclist Falls Off Cliff, Dies

Police said Rivera's death appears to be accidental. Rivera's brother was bicycling with him at the time and reported the incident to police.

A fundraiser has been launched online to help Rena and the three children, Elijah, Ezra and Eden. The campaign has raised more than $6,400 as of Wednesday.

See the fundraiser or make a donation here.

"A loving husband, devoted father, dedicated Paterson fireman, community servant and sports enthusiast, Kerry was the definition of a hero, in every sense of the word," Jeralyn Lawrence wrote on the fundraising page. "Any and all donations to the Rivera family would be extremely appreciated."

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Photo: Kerry James Rivera and Rena Rivera — Courtesy of GoFundMe