Master Sergeant Johnnie DeLaRiva, 66, passed away surrounded by family on December 25, 2020. Johnnie was a devoted family man and proud, decorated veteran who served his country for 22 years in various positions during his time in the Army.

Johnnie DeLaRiva was born on October 28, 1954 in La Junta, CO to Mary A. Palacio DeLaRiva and Amador DeLaRiva.    Johnnie was stationed many places during his time in the Army to include Ft. Devens, MA; Berlin, Germany;  Okinawa, Japan; Washington D.C.; and London, England.  It was at Ft. Devons where he developed his passion for the Boston Red Socks until the Colorado Rockies came around.  While Johnnie was stationed in Berlin, Germany he met and fell for fellow soldier Brenda Simpson who he soon married in April 1979 in Berlin. His last duty station was Ft. Leavenworth, KS and he and Brenda chose to settle down in Leavenworth, KS when he retired.

Johnnie was able to go to college once he retired from the military; he attended Baker University and graduated Cum Laude in 2003.

He was an avid sports fan and cheered on the Denver Broncos, KC Royals, and of course his Jayhawks in basketball.  His greatest joy was spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  His lifelong passion was motorcycle riding and after his retirement, he joined the VFW Riders where he devoted much of his time volunteering.

Johnnie was preceded in death by his mother and father Mary and Amador DeLaRiva and 2 sisters Guadalupe and Yolonda. He is survived by his wife Brenda, 2 children Mary L. Wiggin and John M. DeLaRiva, 4 grandchildren, 8 siblings and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be Friday, January 29, 2021, 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. at Davis Funeral Chapel. Graveside service will be Tuesday, 11 A.M., at Leavenworth National Cemetery.