Demetrio Velez Rodriguez

Demetrio was born in San Marcos, Texas to Eusebio and Macrina Rodriguez. After 13 years, his family, along with his sister, Luisa, moved down to San Angelo to begin a new journey.

Demetrio was know to many as Mr. Dee, Boss Man, Dad, and Wello. He wore many hats in life. Some days he was a master mechanic, other days he was manager and owner of different clubs, the next, he was playing with his grandchildren. This new journey in San Angelo started at Western Auto where, at a young age, he learned to fix vehicles for the citizens of the city. He took pride in making sure he learned everything he could and that each and every vehicle was safe. Life took a turn in 1944 when he was drafted into the war and sent over seas to fight for his country. Demetrio proudly served in the 2nd Infantry Division (Indianhead), 38th infantry regiment. He landed in Omaha Beach on D-day plus 1. And fought during the Battle of the Bulge. After the war he came back to San Angelo and began his career in the movie theaters. For many years, he ran the only Spanish theater in San Angelo, the Rita Theater. He worked for Rowley United for over 20 years fixing popcorn machines, delivering candy and working on all the local drive-in theaters projections. He enjoyed his time at the Texas Theater among many others. After his retirement from the movie theaters, he then joined the SAISD at Holiman Elementary as the custodian supervisor, driving buses and making sure the school was in tiptop shape for the students. But one of his favorite pastimes was that of his grandchildren. He bought a motor home just to see his grandchildren participate in various events such as hockey, karate, soccer and baseball. His love for baseball continued as he attended many of the Colts and Rams baseball games, especially with his grand daughter, Brendalee. He especially loved playing pool with his grandson Pedro! Every Saturday he was out at the pool hall reliving the Latin Ballroom and Cabaña days. Anywhere Demetrio went, he encountered people that knew him from one place or another. From the Rita Theater to the Cabaña Club, Demetrio was loved and respected. During his time on this earth and even after.

Demetrio joins his parents Eusebio and Macrina Rodriguez, sister Lucia Atilano, wife Hilaria Del Rio Rodriguez, daughter Martha Rodriguez and grandson, James Rodriguez in the realm of afterlife.

He is survived by his loving children Mary Lou and husband Pedro F. Estrada, David D. Rodriguez and his late wife Rose Marie, and Lori Brown. His grandchildren, Pedro R. Estrada and wife Belinda, and Brendalee Brown will especially miss their Wello dearly. And his “pretty girl” Pequena, his beloved little Shih Tzu cries for him at his bed.

We have all lost a big part of ours hearts. But we continue to carry his love and memories with us. Always.

Pallbearers are: Pedro R. Estrada, Pedro F. Estrada, Randy Rangel, Mathayas Capuchina, Bobby Rodriguez, and Richard Rodriguez.

Honorary Pallbearers are: Brendalee Brown, Lyle Trask, Jeremy Smith, and Jose Del Rio.

A rosary for Demetrio will be held Thursday, November 9, 2023 at 6:00 PM at Johnson's Funeral Home, 435 West Beauregard Avenue, San Angelo, Texas. A mass of christian burial will occur Friday, November 10, 2023 at 10:00 AM at St Joseph's Catholic Church, 301 West 17th Street, San Angelo, Texas.

Demetrio will be laid to rest in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, San Angelo, Texas.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.johnsons-funeralhome.com for the Rodriguez family.