Manuel Avila Rodriguez

Born June 1, 1928 – Died January 15, 2022

Predeceased by wife Cecilia Cardenas Rodriguez, parents Thomas M. Rodriguez and Cleotilda Avila. Sisters: Virginia Wilson, Mary Canepa, Josefine Lopez, Phyllis Rodriguez, Jessie Espinoza and brother Tom Rodriguez.

Survived by sister Julia Cano and brother Frank Rodriguez as well as many nieces and nephews. Children: Michael Rodriguez, Carolyn Gray, Erlinda Thompson, Edward Rodriguez, Andrew Rodriguez and Aileen Imperatrice. 15 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren.

1946-48 Manuel served in the Army for 20 months. He was stationed in Japan and was a guard at the Imperial Palace, the Bank of Japan and for Gen. Douglas MacArthur. He returned home in 1948. He tried to continue his education. Manuel married Cecilia February 4, 1951. He worked 41 years for UP/SP Railroad, retiring in 1990.

Manuel lived the rest of his life wood carving, painting and sculpting. He also loved his family life, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.