Abel E. Rodriguez

Abel E. Rodriguez passed away on April 16, 2021 at the age of 80. He was a caring husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, godfather, mentor and friend. He was born February 12, 1941 in Dilley, TX to Encarnacion and Eginia Rodriguez.

In his youth he was active in many sports. after high school he served his country in the United States Army. He was recognized in the military for his attention to detail and meticulous work ethic. He married the love of his life, Yolanda Moreno in 1964 and they began their family. Together they raised their family in Dilley, San Antonio, and finally Grand Prairie, Texas. In 1978, he attend a life changing Crusillo weekend. As a Crusillista he took to heart the lessons learned and began a life of service and ministry at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. He was personally invited to be an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion when lay men where first allowed to serve in this capacity. He served in this ministry for many years. He ministered to those in the hospital and the home bound. For several years he assisted those coming into the church through RCIA. He was also a member of the Guadalupanos, Groupo de Oracion and was an Associate of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth.

He retired from American Airlines after 21 years of dedicated employment.

He is preceded in death by his parents and siblings: Pilar Garcia, Rosa Castillo, Isabel Luna, Frances Torres, Concepcion Rodriguez, and Severo Rodriguez, and grandchildren: Theodore and Thomas Castellanos. He is survived by his wife, of 56 years, Yolanda and children: Abel (Angela), Fernando, Sarita (Jaime), Maribel (Michael) and Anamaria (Marcos). At the time of his passing he was the grandfather to 11 grandchildren whom he adored: Andrew, Alexander, Joseph, Maximilian, James, Eli, Aliyah, Benedict, Tobias, Amelia and Nathan. His sister Connie Montalvo and numerous nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made, in his name, to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Grand Prairie TX, Alzheimer’s Association, American Heart Association or Faith Presbyterian Hospice.