Mark Rodrigues

Mark Rodrigues, 52, born and raised in Bristol, RI and currently of Somerset, MA, passed away tragically at Rhode Island Hospital on April 8th. A 1986 graduate of Bristol High School, Mark was a talented mechanic, an ASE Certified Master Technician, and a dedicated employee of the RI Airport Corporation for the last twenty-one years – he could fix or build anything.

Following in the legacy of his late parents, Joseph M. and Genevieve (Barboza) Rodrigues, Mark Rodrigues was the epitome of a family man. He leaves behind three children, Matthew Carvalho and his partner Nicole of Bristol; Jacqueline Thounhurst and her husband Anthony of Virginia; and Victoria Tavares of Rumford; one grandchild, and another on the way. He was also the baby brother to twelve adoring brothers and sisters: Genevieve and Lydia Rodrigues and Margaret Valerio all of South Kingstown, Dolores Bailey of California, Mary Spence of Texas, Joanna Costa of California, Joseph M. Rodrigues, Jr. of Warren, Mariano Rodrigues and his wife Kathy of Riverside, John Rodrigues and his girlfriend Tracey Cooper of Swansea, Dorothea Andrade of South Kingstown, Paul Rodrigues and his girlfriend Octavia Bernardo of Tiverton, and Carol Rodrigues of South Kingstown. He was also brother-in-law to the late William J. Valerio and Richard Andrade Sr., and cousin, nephew, uncle, and friend to so many. In addition, he leaves behind the love of his life and his life partner, Karyn McDonald, who brightened his world in his final years.

Mark was at his happiest spending time on his boat, watching his favorite sports teams, and taking care of his family and friends. An early riser, he accomplished more before sunrise than most accomplish in the whole day – and he was quick to remind you of that. Mark was the undisputed backbone of his family and a trusted, reliable friend and neighbor, giving of himself and his time for whomever asked and oftentimes without asking. He was the person you called if your car was making a weird noise, you needed a tent set up for backyard party, or if you had a craving for delicious clam chowder – no request was too large.

He was never one to seek attention, but secretly enjoyed being the best at everything he did. His perfectionism allowed no room for failure and was evident in the over-the-top manner in which he tackled all endeavors. He could easily turn a simple project into one requiring excessive assembly and battery-power.

The strong, silent type, he wasn’t big on words but would open his heart to you through his actions. Mark may refuse to smile for a photo, but his genuine laughter, usually at his own jokes, would light up the room. That laughter and his bright spirit will be sorely missed by those who love him so dearly.

His Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday, July 10, 2021 at 10:00 am in St. Mary of the Bay Parish, 645 Main Street, Warren followed by burial in St. Mary's Cemetery, Bristol.

In honor of Mark’s selflessness, contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to RI Special Olympics (Bristol Baysiders), 370 George Washington Hwy, Smithfield, RI 02917. His arrangements are in the care of Wilbur-Romano Funeral Home, Warren, www.wilbur-romano.com