David Rodriguez

After graduating from Cooper High School, he joined the United States Navy. During his service, he had the opportunity to visit many places, including Diego Garcia, Guam, and the Pacific Northwest. Following his final duty station in California, he began working for a furniture manufacturer, where he realized his dream of becoming a woodworker and gained valuable skills in the craft.

He later returned to Abilene, Texas, and started his own woodworking business, creating commissioned pieces and restoring cherished family heirlooms for local families and businesses. He primarily worked at a small shop located on his parents' property but also briefly operated a storefront on North 2nd Street called Cactus Designs. His craftsmanship was featured in an art installation at the Renaissance Hotel in Dallas.

Although woodworking was his profession, David enjoyed many hobbies, including sewing, photography, and bonsai. He successfully cultivated several bonsai trees using local species, including the native mesquite.

He is survived by his father, Ignacio Rodriguez; his brothers, Ignacio Rodriguez Jr., Rudy Rodriguez, and Alfredo Rodriguez, all of Abilene, Texas; his sisters, Angelina Corbett and her spouse, Patrick, of Stillwater, Minnesota; Gloria Connally and her spouse, Robin Allen, of Cabot, Arkansas; and Yolanda Winders and her spouse, Lance, of Bivins, Texas.

He is also survived by his nephews and nieces: Gabriel Rodriguez and his spouse, Karen; Donovan Corbett; Marquel Corbett and her spouse, Collin Gedatus; Nigel Connally; Julia Connally; Mitchell Winders and his spouse, Meghan Manriquez; Vanessa Winders; and Samantha Winders. He also leaves behind his loyal companion, Cosmo.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Raquel Rodriguez.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, August 15, at 11:00 a.m. at 865 Poplar, Abilene, Tx 79602.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to local animal shelters in Abilene.