Justin James Rivard

Justin James Rivard, 45, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, June 28, 2026.

Justin born and raised in Gaastra, MI, where he grew up as part of a large, close-knit family. Family was always at the center of his life, and he cherished the love, support, and memories they shared.

Justin graduated from West Iron County High School with the Class of 1999 before attending Michigan State University, where he earned a degree in Psychology. He later continued his education at Samuel Merritt University, earning his Nursing Degree and went on to complete his Critical Care Nurse Practitioner degree through UCSF. Justin dedicated his career to caring for others and most recently served as a Critical Care Nurse Practitioner at Sutter Health/California Pacific Medical Center. He made his home between San Francisco and Reno, though the Upper Peninsula always in his heart.

Justin had a deep passion for the outdoors and embraced every opportunity to enjoy nature. He loved skiing, fly fishing, camping, hiking, golfing, mountain biking, and nearly any outdoor adventure. Above all, he treasured spending time with his beloved dogs, Doug, LeRoy, Arnold, and Cookie.

On August 26, 2021, in San Francisco, CA, Justin married the love of his life, Michael Villegas. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, adventure, and unwavering devotion to one another.

Justin is survived by his loving husband, Michael; his parents, Mark and Terry Rivard; his brothers, Jason (Kristine) and Josh (Danielle); nephew, Ryan; niece, Reagan; dear friends, Tommy (Lisa), Sarah, and Allegra; special cousins, Matthew “Bucky”, Kathy, and Michelle, with whom he shared countless childhood memories; and many other loving family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Cecila and Melvin Clements and Billy and Beatrice Rivard.

Justin will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, compassionate heart, unwavering love for his family and friends, and the kindness he extended to everyone he met. His memory will live on in the hearts of all were fortunate enough to know and love him.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Jacobs Funeral Home of Iron River. The Nurses Honor Guard of Dickinson-Iron Counties will conduct honors immediately following the visitation.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:30 p.m. at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Caspian, his childhood parish, with Fr. Daniel Fosu officiating.