Alfonso Beltran Rodriguez

I am forever a sailor. I am standing on the deck with salt spray in my face and clean ocean winds whipping in from the four quarters of the globe. I have traveled to many ports in my lifetime and now to a new adventure in a new port I go. I see all those that have gone before me, waiting with open arms. I am at rest. Do not weep for me for I am with my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, my loved ones and fellow sailors. Know that we will meet again someday. Always rememeber that I lived a good life with few regrets. I love you and I am watching over you.

Lt. Alfonso B. Rodriguez, 81, loving and beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and uncle, departed this life to enter into the kingdom of god on November 19th 2012 from Tacoma, WA.

Alfonso was born in Long Beach, Ca. to Ysauro and Elisa Rodriguez on January 02, 1931.

He is preceded in death by his parents: Ysauro Rodriguez and Elisa Beltran; and his sister: Rebecca Rodriguez.

Left behind to honor him and cherish his memory are his children: Theresa E Rodriguez-Lillico (Robert), Victoria Bonse Graham, Maria E Saglime, and Ricardo M. Rodriguez; His grand-children: Steven Peer, Margarita Madrigal, Joseph Peer, Alicia Rodriguez Greenhouse (Michael), Daniel Peer, Nicole Bekken (Jacob), Rebeca Lillico, Christine Bonse, Robert Lillico, Joshua Peer and Kevin Peer, Brianna Rodriguez, Tabitha Rodriguez; and his great-grandchildren. He will also be missed by his brother: Antonio Rodriguez (Shirley); his sister: Ernistina Campbell (Brian); his ex-wife: Ramona Chavez and numerous nieces and nephews.

Alfonso grew up and entered the Military at age of 18. He proudly served for 18 years in the U.S. Navy and was a proud Veteran. He received the National Defense Service Medal and 1 Bronze Star, Vietnam Service Medal and 2 Bronze Stars, Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal With Device, Navy Unit Commendation and 1 Bronze Star, Naval Achievement and 1 Star, Good Conduct and 2 Stars.

Alfonso retired at the age of 37 as a Lt in the Navy after suffering a major stroke. Alfonso was not to be kept down though and he taught himself to walk and talk again. He went back to school and even got his driver’s license. He was a quiet person, he loved to just sit and watch people. He lived a long, happy and eventful life. He made friends easily, was very much loved where ever he went and always willing to help anyone in need.

Alfonso moved to Heritage Rehab in Tacoma WA in August 2012.

Alfonso wasn’t much for pomp and circumstance, he was simple man. His last request in life was to be cremated and buried at sea with his fellow shipmates. Alfonso request no tears (unless you are laughing), bright colors, lots of music, song and drink.

Favorite sayings are; Bah Humbug, Ehh Whatever.

Alfonso was a longtime member of the Knights of Columbus and the Fleet Reserve Association in Chula Vista, Ca.