natural causes in her home in Norwalk, California. She is survived by her seven children: Rosa
Maria Rodriguez, Yolanda Ruedas, Dagoberto Rodriguez, Sonia Cardenas, Angel Rodriguez,
Martin Rodriguez, Ruben Rodriguez, as well as her 15 grandchildren and 13 great
grandchildren.
She was born October 28, 1942 in Atecucario, Michoacán, Mexico to Maria and Ruben
Garcia. She rebelled against her parent’s wishes and ran away with her love, Alfonso
Rodriguez. On an early Tuesday morning on August 13, 1957 they were married in the Catholic
church with the blessing of their parents. Alfonso preceded her death on August 10,1999.
After an accident that left her beloved Alfonso permanently disabled, Catalina arrived in
Los Angeles, California in 1967 alone to establish a new home for her family who came a year
later. Cata was an extremely hard worker and worked long hours and had multiple jobs at once.
With the help of her eldest children she was able to move her family from East Los Angeles and
into a dream home in Norwalk. As one of the eldest of 10 children in her family from Mexico, she
served as an example to her youngest siblings and encouraged them to come to America and
build a better life of their own.
She helped support her family by working as a cook serving traditional Mexican food, at
a restaurant located in the popular Olvera Street for over 10 years. After working at Olvera
Street, she worked ambitiously to open her own restaurant, La Placita , in Norwalk. The opening
of her own restaurant allowed her to give working opportunities to people she saw that were in
need. Anyone who had the chance to come inside Catalina’s home had the pleasure of tasting
her delightful food. Cata had an enticing way with food that would bring family and friends
visiting her house every weekend. Her food translated to love and warmth that many people will
never forget.
Catalina was a wonderful mother who gave special care to each of her seven children.
She set herself as an example to each of them of what hard work means and looks like, and
empowered them to each reach their own goals. Her motherhood extended well beyond her
children and carried into the devotion of her grandchildren and even great grandchildren.
Oftentimes she and Alfonso would walk the grandchildren to school and prepare breakfast,
lunches and dinners for them everyday. She also lended her home as a second home to all of
them. Each of them can recall their own special moments and lessons learned from her that
they still carry today.
Cata had a generous heart and found herself many times aiding or guiding neighbors or
troubled youth that needed help in her community. Whenever she would see a family member
or stranger facing a struggle she would never give judgement to that person but instead help
them in any way she could. Catalina faced many adversities of her own in life, yet she never
allowed it to waiver her spirit or diminish the love she had for us all. Cata lived a humble life that
was rich with love and compassion which radiated towards anyone that was near her.
From the bottom of her children, grandchildren and great grandchildren’s hearts we want
to thank you all for being part of our Mothers life. We know that the love you may have
expressed to her had an impact and we are truly grateful for that love whether it was with food,
a phone call, hugs or kisses she was always appreciative. Thank you! May you Rest in eternal
peace our Catita hermosa...
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