Mary Lelia Rivera, 74, of Elkhart, passed away peacefully on Thursday, May 28, 2020 at her home.

Mary was born on April 29, 1946 in Detroit to the late Joseph and Mary Magdalene (Esser) Bauer. Mary is survived by her two loving daughters, Rose Marie Rivera; Francisca Magdalena Rivera; and will be missed by her two grandchildren Xareni Itzel Morales and Joshua Carter Rivera; also surviving are two brothers, Joseph F. (Kristine) Bauer and William (Alice) Bauer. A brother Robert Joseph Bauer preceded her in death.

Mary was a teacher, educator and lover of life. She was a member of the Anthroposophical Society, The Christian Community and also taught Bothmer Gymnastics. A world traveler, she lived in Holland, Germany and England for a Decade. She loved art and was a painter; with watercolor one of her favorite mediums. A person of great faith, she lived life fully and gratefully. 

Cremation was chosen under the care of Billings Funeral Home. A celebration of life service will be held on June 13, 2020 at 2:30pm time at the Anabaptist Mennonite Biblical Seminary with Pastor David Moser of Southside Fellowship officiating. Please join the family in honoring her life by visiting the Billings Funeral Home website to share a memory or condolence.