Irma Rodriguez

Irma Rodriguez, 68, of Fresno, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2021, at Community Regional Medical Center Hospital. She was born July 10, 1952, in Edinburg, Texas, the daughter of Ramiro and Concepcion Rodriguez. She grew up in Fresno, California where she graduated from Hoover High School in 1970 and earned an Associate of Science degree from Fresno City College in 1973.

In her young adulthood, Irma lived the life as a nun at a local convent to determine if this was her calling. Ultimately, she decided to pursue an education to become a Radiologic Technologist. She interned at the Veteran’s Hospital, and Fresno Community Hospital. Irma moved to Modesto, and began working at Gould Medical Center, where she was regularly on-call. She enjoyed this opportunity to learn and expand her knowledge and experience. Even when she became unable to perform the duties of a Radiologic Technologist, Irma continued to complete continuing education, and at the time of her death, her license was current.

Irma returned to Fresno in the 1990’s, and settled in the Tower District, near the Shrine of St. Therese. She quickly became a member of this community, and in 1998, she completed courses to begin teaching Catechism at St. Therese Elementary School. She also became a member of the church choir. Later, she became a Eucharistic Minister, assisting the priest in administering the sacraments of holy communion. She also administered sacraments to those who were ill, or otherwise unable to attend Mass.

Irma was passionate about many things including classical music, history, art, sewing, writing short stories, and travel. She traveled through Europe and toured various Catholic churches in several states. Genealogy held a special interest for Irma. She diligently traced her family’s history as far back as the 1700’s and accumulated many official records. Each binder she prepared was detailed, and impeccably organized. Irma was proud of what she had accomplished in this regard and enjoyed sharing her knowledge with family members.

Animals were a big part of Irma’s life. Over the years, she took care of and raised rabbits, turtles, birds, dogs, and even a goose, but the most important pet in the last years of her life, was her little black and tan Chihuahua named Angel. This was Irma’s “little girl,” who she loved dearly and spoiled. Irma sewed clothing for Angel to wear for every season or occasion. Angel was always beautifully dressed, and never wanted for anything.

Irma is survived by her brothers, Ralph Rodriguez (Janice); Laurence Rodriguez (Sylvia); Ronald P. Rodriguez (Cathy); Rodney Rodriguez; and sister Carolyn R. Borunda (Robert); her beloved nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews, whom she loved immensely. She was predeceased by her sisters Norma Ali and Rosemary Rodriguez.

Visitation for Irma will be held Tuesday, July 6, 2021 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Whitehurst Sullivan Burns & Blair Funeral Home, 836 E. Nees Ave., Fresno, California 93720 followed by a Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6:00 p.m.

A Mass of Christian Burial will occur Wednesday, July 7, 2021 at 10:00 AM at Shrine of St. Therese Catholic Church, 1410 N Wishon Ave, Fresno, California 93728.

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