Obituary of Joseph Rodriquez

In Loving Memory of Joseph Rodriquez

On the evening of Sunday, November 26th, 2023, Joseph “Joe” Lopez Rodriquez, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully while surrounded by family. He was 85 years old.

Joseph was born on March 13th, 1938 to Ruth and John Rodriguez. He and his siblings were raised in Chandler, Arizona. At the age of 15, he met the love of his life Delia at a Catholic Youth Organization dance. In 1959, he married Delia and together they raised five children in Gilbert, Arizona.

Joseph was an incredibly hard worker. He proudly served our country as a United States Marine,worked as a volunteer firefighter in the Town of Gilbert, and retired as a heavy equipment operator. Before retiring, he often spent his weekends rounding up and treating sick cattle.

Joseph enjoyed rainy days, family gatherings, ranching, and gardening. He is perhaps best known for his salsa that was made with garden-fresh habaneros. He was a tender-hearted man who loved spending time with his family and friends.

Joseph exemplified the true meaning of love, strength, and hard work. He would often say “A man is only as good as his word;” he set a grand example of this by being a supportive husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He has made a profound impact on the lives of many and will be greatly missed.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents Ruth and John Rodriguez and sons Michael and Joey Rodriquez.

Joseph is survived by his wife Delia “Lilly” Rodriquez; daughter Elizabeth “Lisa” Bender; sons David and Andrew Rodriquez; grandchildren Nicole “Cole” Rodriquez, David “Mister” Rodriquez, Chantelle Rodriquez, Blaise Bender, and Layni Rodriquez; great-grandchildren Mason Rodriquez, Fender Nowack, Hudson Rodriquez, and Gabby Aguilar.