Joseph Rodriguez

He lived a full life through his 97 years.

Graduated from Aviation High School in New York, played Saxophone with a Latin Group during and after high school with the Sensemia Kids. Was called to duty by the Army and was stationed in Italy during WWII and received the Purple Heart, European-American-Middle Eastern Service Medal and the WWII Victory Medal. He was wounded in combat serving in Italy and returned home due to his injuries.

After returning home he went to college and study music at Julliard for 2 years. He married Nilda Rodriguez, the love of his life on April 26, 1947. The marriage flourished with 7 children, Jose, Daniel, Juan (deceased), David, Carlos, Nilda and Linda, 12 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren and 1 great great granddaughter. He is survived by 2 brothers, Jose and Agustin and two daughters-in-law, Laura and Lynette.

Pop was sole proprietor owning a Laundry Business and a Pest Control Business while continuing to play in the Ensenat Band with his upright bass and bass guitar.

He lost the love of his life to illness after 55 years of marriage. He was an avid walker, enjoyed playing dominos with his wife, against other couples. he had fun going to Atlantic City with his daughter , and playing Craps. He also enjoyed betting on and watching the Kentucky Derby, the Preakness Stakes and the Belmont Stakes. Loved playing ping pong. A ping pong table was available at home and he competed with his children. he was so good that he'd let his children occasionally win. During his 80's he played at a club against those youngsters (men in the early 60's and 70's) and winning sets against those "young guys"

He ensured his children were grounded in God and received a Christian education.

A visitation for Joseph will be held Thursday, May 5, 2022 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Baldwin Fairchild at Chapel Hill, 2420 Harrell Road, Orlando, FL 32817. A funeral service will occur Friday, May 6, 2022 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 2420 Harrell Road, Orlando, FL 32817. A committal service will occur Friday, May 6, 2022 from 11:00 AM to 11:30 AM at 9822 - Chapel Hill Cemetery, 2400 Harrell Road, Orlando, FL 32817.