Odyssey Innovative Designs (Odyssey) a leading design, manufacturer and distributor of cases and accessories, has announced the passing of long-time Odyssey employee Robert Rivera due to COVID-19.Rivera began his career in the early-1990s in retail operations at a record store in Los Angeles owned by John Hsiao, who would eventually launch Odyssey Cases with Mario Montano. Robert had a passion for vinyl records and the growth of the DJ movement, moonlighting as a mobile DJ playing weddings and events. In 2000, he joined Odyssey as an operations generalist, where he was able to find a professional career that aligned with his love for the DJ community. Between sales, product management, supply chain and customer success, Robert found a home for the next two-decades, becoming a staple at Odyssey alongside co-founders/owners John and Mario.
In late-December 2020, Robert began experiencing COVID-19 symptoms at which point he was permanently working remotely from home. His symptoms progressively became worse over the next several weeks, and on February 9, 2021, he sadly lost his battle with the virus. Robert was 47, survived by his sister-in-law and nephew, having tragically lost his parents and only brother in years past.
“We are completely devastated and heart-broken over the loss of our dear friend, colleague and brother, Rob Rivera. As our Odyssey family morns, along with our community, we’re comforted knowing that Rob is resting peacefully, and has made us all better people for having known him,” says Mario Montano and John Hsiao, Co-Founders of Odyssey Innovative Designs.
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