Dolores Rodriguez Vezzolini

The first time we met, you were working for the School of Continuing and Global Education at Fresno State. One of your jobs was the Principal of Science Adventure, a program that taught science through hands-on exploration to children.

We had an interview and you hired me. I taught children K-6 with three other teachers and four assistants. As the principal, you knew all the children by their names and befriended parents, always with a positive and interactive approach. As a matter of fact, we always received outstanding evaluations, due to your positive leadership.

I fell in love with you and we married. One of the activities we worked on together was feeding the feral cats and catching and releasing them after they had been neutered and spayed. You were the cat whisperer of Fresno State.

You would do this every day, spending your own money for food and supplies. I would help you on Sunday. When I would complain about not attending church, you would say that you are doing God’s work because cats, especially black cats, are often the most abused animals in the world.

I am so proud of your work ethic! You earned your degree in textile merchandising. Then you worked tirelessly for the students in the Craig School of Business. Lately, you worked so hard coordinating classes at Fresno State for students, counseling them, acting as a liaison between gifted high school students and the university. While working full time, you also worked on your doctoral thesis, obtained your doctoral degree in education, and graduated at the top of your class.

You are my Queen and a role model for all Hispanic students. Our love story changed on January 3. I will love you and miss you forever.

Ricardo

Dolores is survived by her husband Richard Vezzolini, her godparents Lita and Carlos Ramos, and cousin Jessie Lee Lara. We would like to thank all of her friends for their love and support.

In lieu of flowers remembrances may be made in Dolores' name to the Cat House on the King, 7120 S. Kings River Rd., Parlier, CA 93648