The Colorado State University Pueblo Athletics family is coming together to support one of its own.
Former ThunderWolves volleyball student-athlete Mariangel Perez, who competed for CSU Pueblo from 2014-16, and her family remain missing following the recent earthquake in Venezuela. As search and recovery efforts continue, the Pack community is asking for thoughts, prayers and support for Mariangel, her husband, Wilner Rivas, and their young son, Theo.
For those who knew Mariangel during her time in Pueblo, she is remembered as a dedicated student-athlete, a loyal teammate and someone whose kindness and perseverance left a lasting impact on the ThunderWolf family. Since returning to Venezuela, Mariangel has built a life centered around faith and family while recently opening a small business of her own.
Wilner serves as the captain of the Venezuelan National Volleyball Team, proudly representing his country throughout his career. Together, Mariangel and Wilner are devoted parents to their young son, Theo.
As emergency crews continue searching through the devastation caused by the earthquake, family members remain hopeful and continue working tirelessly to locate Mariangel, Wilner and Theo. The search has been challenging due to the widespread destruction, and additional heavy machinery is needed to assist with recovery efforts.
To help provide those resources, family members have established an official GoFundMe campaign. Donations will help secure private heavy equipment and support the ongoing search and recovery efforts.
The ThunderWolf family has always rallied around its own, and today is no different.
CSU Pueblo Athletics asks everyone to keep Mariangel, Wilner, Theo and all those impacted by this tragedy in your thoughts and prayers. If you are able, please consider supporting the family's efforts by donating through the official GoFundMe campaign:
GoFundMe: Support the Rivas-Perez Family
Every prayer, donation and shared message of support brings hope to a family and community that continue to search for their loved ones.
