Michael T. Rivers Sr.

Michael T. Rivers Sr., 70, of Schenectady, passed away peacefully on February 22, 2026.

Michael was born on September 15, 1955 in Plattsburgh, NY, and was raised in Schodack, NY. He was the oldest of four children. He was predeceased by his parents, Norman and Bertha Rivers (Hacker), and is survived by his sisters, Jeanne Morris and Brenda (Mark) Jenkins, and his brother, Douglas (Marsha) Rivers and wife Eva Sinclair.

Michael was the father of Jennifer (Jeff) Cole, Jessica (Michael) Decker, Michael Rivers Jr., Taryn Ferraro, Jacob Rivers, and Hailey Rivers. His life was complex, and like many families, relationships evolved and changed over time. While life’s demands sometimes pulled him in many directions, those who knew him understood that he carried love in his own way. Time and circumstance did not always allow him to be there as often as he would have liked, but the moments he shared with his children were meaningful. They especially cherished the days they were able to go boating or ATV riding with him or to spend the day at work with him, proud to be by his side and share in his world. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Alicia, Alexander, Blake, Brady, Casey, Samson, Lincoln and Dayan and many nieces, and nephews.

A gifted and hardworking mechanic, Michael built much of his life around engines, tools, and problem-solving. He was an expert Ford mechanic who also owned and operated his own garage before later working as a Property Manager at Princetown Pro Services. From a simple light fixture to the most stubborn, complicated motor, there was nothing he couldn’t fix or build with his own two hands. He took quiet pride in doing things himself, and in doing them right. When he finished, whatever he had worked on didn’t just run again or stand upright, it was as close to perfect as he could make it.

Michael loved his toys! Motorcycles, quads, snowmobiles, boats, and hot rods. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, always happiest when outdoors or working with his hands. He enjoyed bowling and golf. Golf, in particular, tested his patience and provided stories that will live on. Family members still recall the day a particularly uncooperative golf ball led Michael to snap his club in half and send it sailing into a nearby pond, a moment of frustration that quickly became legend. Beyond his tough exterior, Michael loved to sing and dance, Surfin’ Bird was one of his favorites. He was often making up his own funny lyrics to songs, turning ordinary moments into ones filled with humor and personality. He especially enjoyed spending time four-wheeling on Tug Hill alongside his companion, Barbara Farrell, creating memories filled with adventure and companionship.

Michael was the best dad and will be remembered as a man of strong will, sharp skill, and deep, if sometimes guarded, feeling. His life was marked by independence that left an impression.

“He will turn the hearts of the fathers to their children,

and the hearts of the children to their fathers.”

— Malachi 4:6

Thank You, Lord, for turning our hearts back to each other.

What was broken, You have gently restored.