Charles James Rodriguez

Charles “Charlie” was born in Texas to Julio and Mary (Martinez) Rodriguez on July 25, 1921.

He married Katherine Madrid in Greeley on December 28, 1947. They lived in Greeley for a few years, before moving to California with their first three children. Charles worked construction with RC Becker and Sons for years. While living in California he and Katherine had three more children.

Charles served in the military with the Army of the United States from August 23, 1943 and was honorably discharged on January 21, 1946. He served for 20 months with AAA Automatic Weapons Crewman (601). He then was operator (309) with the 210 Antiaircraft Automatic Weapons Battalion in the Philippine Island. He operated the battery headquarters and gun stations. His decorations and citations include: Asiatic Pacific Service Medal, Philippines, Liberation Ribbon, World War II Victory Medal, Good Conduct Medal and he was one out of five men who received a Bronze Star. He also received his Sons of Neptune Certificate for crossing the Equator on March 29, 1944.

Charles is survived by his six children, Julio (Rose) Rodriguez, Lino Rodriguez, Linda Rodriguez, James (Eva) Rodriguez, Cecilia (Jerry) Andrade and Rudy (Paula) Rodriguez, one brother, Joe Rodriguez of San Jose, California; 17 grandchildren, AJ, Tasha, Brandon, Yvette, Ricky and Eric Rodriguez, Brad, Desiree, Nathan, Mikala, Adam, Aaron and Kelsey Andrade and Bryson, Rudee, Levi and Derek and 16 great-grandchildren. Most of Charles’ family came to celebrate his 95th birthday, what a joy it was for him.

Charles loved gardening, teaching Sunday school, reading his Bible, singing and family get-togethers.

Visitation will be from 5:00-6:00 p.m. Thursday, September 22, 2016 followed by Celebration of Life from 6:00-7:30 p.m. both at Upper Room Ministries. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. Friday, September 23, 2016 at Upper Room Ministries. Interment Linn Grove Cemetery.

Please sign the online guestbook at www.stoddardsunset.com.