He was killed in April <\/a>when, police say, a driver leaving the school parking lot struck a pole, which then hit Rivas as he put himself in front of students.<\/p>\nHis father, Roy Rivas, spoke about the loss.<\/p>\n
“It’s hard for me everyday to wake up. I used to talk him to him every day. He’d call me in the middle of the day. He’d say, ‘Papa, I love you,'” Roy Rivas said. “Losing him, it’s been hard on me. It’s been hard on my son. My son is still in denial, you know, because they were like twins.”<\/p>\n
Roy Rivas served as the White Sox team chef for more than 40 years. Family, friends and members of the White Sox organization attended the fundraiser, including White Sox legend Ron Kittle, who helped co-host the event.<\/p>\n
“He had a special place in a lot of people’s hearts. He was a good guy,” Kittle said. “I think that’s going to be the reflection today is there’s good people out there, and we need more of them.”<\/p>\n
In addition to his work at Buffalo Grove High School, Rivas also worked for the White Sox and as a juvenile probation officer during a long career. Loved ones said his position at the high school provided another opportunity to build relationships with young people.<\/p>\n
“Everybody knew him. Every kid knew him because he kind of made it point to go and connect with kids, make sure he knew their name, what they were interested in,” said Jeff Wardle, principal of Buffalo Grove High School.<\/p>\n
Erin Rivas said the support shown by the community brought comfort to her family.<\/p>\n
“My heart feels full tonight. There’s always going to be sadness because I miss him so much, but this is overwhelming in like the best way possible,” she said.<\/p>\n
An auction of White Sox tickets and memorabilia was held during the event, with proceeds benefiting the Rivas family.<\/p>\n
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