Gabriel Angel Rodriguez

Gabriel Angel Rodriguez of Wildwood FL, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and distinguished naval officer, passed away on December 1, 2024, at the age of 67. Born on March 11, 1957, in Staten Island, NY, to Gabriel Angel Rodriguez Sr. and Edna Victoria Rodriguez, he was the eldest of four sons. He grew up in Ponce, Puerto Rico and took great pride in his community and heritage.

Dr. Rodriguez was an accomplished scholar and physician; a graduate of Colegio Ponceño Class of 1974, he continued his studies at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez earning his degree in biology in 1978, before completing his medical degree at Ponce School of Medicine in 1981. Gabriel embarked on a distinguished 30-year career in the United States Navy, joining active duty service in 1984 as a pediatrician and later completing a second residency in anesthesiology. He served with honor and distinction, receiving numerous awards including four Meritorious Service Medals, before retiring in 2014 at the rank of Captain.

While Dr. Rodriguez’ service to his country was remarkable, he will always be remembered for the love and devotion he had for his family. Throughout his life, Gabriel was blessed with a loving family. Raising his children and watching them grow and flourish was his greatest joy. He is survived by his children from his first marriage to Maria Moreno: His three sons; Gabriel (Adam), Michael, Steven, and his daughter Lorraine. He married his wife, Shirley Rodriguez, on July 19, 2003, and is survived by Shirley and their daughter, Camila. Additionally, he is survived by his father, Gabriel Angel Rodriguez Sr., and his brothers, Oscar, Allan, and Ed and their families.

Gabriel was a loving and devoted grandfather to his grandchildren, who brought immense joy to his life. He is survived by Lucas and Victoria, (children of Gabriel (Adam) and his wife Kerry); Leo, Ivan, Dani, and Aaron, (children of Steven and his wife Elizabeth); Alex and Eleanor, (children of Michael and his wife Samantha); and Moises, Juliette, and Sebastian, (children of Camila).

Spending time with his family and friends was one of the true pleasures of his life. He was an avid sports fan and could be found on the sidelines of all of his children’s sporting events when they were growing up, even taking to the dugout to coach his son’s little league teams. Family vacations filled with rollercoasters, waterslides, and “quick games” of Monopoly to cap the night were some of his favorite ways to fill his free time. Gabriel also enjoyed traveling the country to spend time with his family and friends. He loved music and could turn any space into a dance floor when Salsa or any Latin music came on; and the Village People’s “In the Navy” could always draw him to the Karaoke microphone. His convivial nature, quick wit, and joyous laughter created countless memories that will be cherished by all who knew him.

Gabriel’s legacy is one of dedication, service, and love. His tireless commitment to his patients, his country, and most of all, his friends and family will be deeply missed, but his memory will be cherished by all who knew him. As a naval officer, a physician, and a family man, he embodied the values of compassion, integrity, and honor. His passing leaves a void in the lives of all who loved him, but his impact on our lives will continue to inspire and guide us in the years to come.

Memorial Services will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery on January 24, 2025 at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation in honor of Gabriel Angel Rodriguez to the Gary Sinise Foundation, PO Box 40726, Nashville, TN 37204 (https://www.garysinisefoundation.org/donate).