Gilbert Frances Rodriguez

Gilbert Frances Rodriguez “Rod” 97 year old, a native Tucsonian, passed away peacefully in his home March 23rd, 2023 surrounded by his loving family. Gilbert was raised by his Nana Francisca (Panchita) A. Andrade. He is preceded in death by his father, Miguel Rodriguez, mother, Francisca Parada, brother, Henry Felix, sisters, Bertha Dominquez, Alicia Felix, and Clementina Ecker. Gilbert is survived by his loving spouse Lupe T Rodriguez. This coming May they would have celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary. They had five children: Teresa (Mike) Soto, Gilbert (Yolanda), Helen Rabago, Luis (Celia), Cristine Baker. 10 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, and 2 great-great grandchildren, along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Gilbert graduated from Tucson High School class of 1945. Upon completion of a tour in the US Air Force, He married his high school sweetheart Lupe Rico “Lady” in May of 1948. “Rod” was a Veteran of both WW-II and the Korean War. He retired from Civil Service after 38 years. He loved his part time job as a crossing guard at various TUSD schools. In 2020 he was selected as the Grand Marshall for the Tucson Rodeo Parade. Gilbert was always willing to volunteer for the community such as; the Fairgrounds Neighborhood Association, Van Buskirk Elementary School, and Saint Vincent de Paul Society. Gilbert was a devout Catholic and a lifelong parishioner of his beloved San Augustin Cathedral where in his later years volunteered as an Usher.

Gilbert and Lupe traveled extensively throughout the United States, and Mexico. Some of his favorite trips were an Alaskan cruise with his five children and their spouses, a week-long fishing trip to Yakutak, Alaska, and the Honor Flight for Veterans to Washington DC. Dad also looked forward to the annual family trip to Rocky Point. Gilbert was famous for making delicious margaritas with his secret ingredient: LOVE. He was proud of his Mexican culture and loved mariachi music. Dad passed this love to his children and grandchildren. He always enjoyed dancing and being with family and friends. He enjoyed the outdoors, especially watching hummingbirds and cloud formations. Along with being a pillar in the community, Rod was a true and loyal friend; helping anyone with everything and anything. His favorite saying was, “If you need anything, call me”.

Gilbert never met a stranger and welcomed all with open arms. He touched many lives and will be missed by those fortunate enough to know him. Tata, this is for you; “pa’ ariba, pa’ bajo, pa’ centro, pa’ dentro!”

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