Rodney Ernest Couto was born July 31, 1951, to Leota and Ernie Couto. In his early years, his family, now including brothers Larry and Don, lived on his grandparents', Manual and Lottie Couto' ranch on Goldenrod in Kerman. Rod loved his days riding around the countryside with his grandpa. When he was five years old, his family moved to property on Grantland Avenue so Ernie could build his shop and build cabinets for Ernie's Cabinets. Rod missed his days with his grandpa, so every chance he got he rode his bike to Kerman to be with him.
The boys and all the cousins were often with his grandparents Earl and Elma Stoops on their property on the bank of the San Joaquin River. Grandma kept the kids busy teaching them about all creatures in and around the river. The stories they share about those times are very entertaining !
After graduating high school, he ventured out of his Dad's shop to join Pacific Door and Cabinet to help build their cabinet business. Eventually he and his brother Don opened their own business Fresno Woodworking. He had quite the reputation for his beautiful custom kitchens throughout Fresno and the surrounding areas. He couldn't drive too far without pointing out a house he built cabinets in.
Rod was proud of his Portuguese Heritage and became involved with the S.B.F. Portuguese Hall in Kerman, serving as President and voted in consistently to the Board of Directors. He proudly helped with all the functions at the hall until his health prevented it.
He loved his family, gathering with friends, food, and mostly laughing. You knew he was in the building before even entering by the sound of his laugh!
After suffering many years of problems associated with Congestive Heart Failure, he passed April 27, 2025. He is now pain free and in the loving arms of our Lord and family who have passed before him.
He is survived by wife Pam (Sabbatini) Sister-in-law Carla Couto, Brother-in-law Lynn Sabbatini (Kathy) and his brothers Mark (Denise) and Kurt (Renee) Carlson. His children Garrett Couto, CharLee Charboneau (Robbie) and Gina Sellers (Brad). He wanted very much to be the loving and memorable grandfather to his grandchildren that all of his grandparents were to him . He cherished every chance he had to spend time with his grandchildren Drake, Ciana and Noah Sellers, Beau and Emmitt Charboneau.
Graveside services will be held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 at 11:00 am at Mountain View Cemetery, 1411 West Belmont Avenue, Fresno CA 93728
Remembrances may be sent to a charity of your choice in his memory.
Special thanks to the California Armenian Home for their wonderful care for Rod.
