Joseph Edward Rodriguez Sr.

October 13, 1932 — April 3, 2026

Joe Rodriguez passed away on April 3, 2026, leaving behind a life defined by quiet strength, generosity, and steadfast devotion to his family. He was born on October 13, 1932, to Amelia and Jose Rodriguez.

Joe proudly served his country in the United States Army with the 4th Infantry, with a short stent in Germany. After returning from serving his country overseas, he continued to serve his country for 43 years, working at Pt. Mugu Naval Base as a Carpenter and Paymaster. Joe enjoyed his assignments building homes on San Nicolas Island. His military service was a point of quiet pride, reflecting his lifelong commitment to duty without seeking recognition.

Those who knew Joe remember him as quiet, gentle, and strong. He was the kind of man who would go out of his way to help anyone, whether friend or stranger, without expecting even a thanks in return. He had a deep love of poker, fishing, and sports, especially baseball. Joe enjoyed fixing and building things with his own hands and took great pleasure in supporting his children and grandchildren in their athletic endeavors, as a Santa Paula Little League Majors coach for many years.

Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend. He is survived by his beloved wife of 70 years, Millie Rodriguez, sisters Rosemary Baldiviez, Angie Inez and Carmen Poole. He is also survived by his seven children, Edward (Elena) Rodriguez, Gary Rodriguez, Arthur (Jeanette) Rodriguez, Susan Vega, Sandra (Robert) Sandoval, Joe (Maria) Rodriguez, James (Angie) Rodriguez and Goddaughter Jessica (Vicente) Montes. Thirteen Grandchildren; Nick Coronado, Raylene Sandoval, Alicia Rodriguez, Anthony Medina, Robert Sandoval Jr., Yesina Sandoval, Arthur Rodriguez Jr, Matthew Medina, Ruben Sandoval, Andrea Rodriguez, Rebecca Rodriguez, Joanna Rodriguez, Jaime Rodriguez; 21 great-grandchildren, with one on the way, and one great-great-grandson. Joe is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and extended family and friends.

Joe’s quiet presence, steady hands, and unwavering kindness will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the family he loved, the work he completed, and the countless lives he touched simply by being who he was.