I worked for Frank and his company Best Fire Systems in 93/94/95, he was a awesome boss and what a great guy, I moved away for many years back to Florida but never forgot about him, I'm so very sad to see of his passing, we have lost a good one but  heaven has gained a super soul.. hugs to his family.
Sad news truly.

I love to hear Frank sing. I still hear him sing in my head. It is a sound I will hear all my life. But more than that I can hear him laugh. And laugh he did. He loved to tell a good joke and he loved to hear one. I will forever hear Franks laugh in my head. It lives on in me. His laugh was so spontaneous you could not help but laugh back. He was spontaneous and fun.

I always enjoyed Frank's input in class on Sunday morning. Seeing him checked in on Sundays made me smile. My favorite part was when we all sat and ate together on Wednesday nights at church. I'm sadden he's no longer with us here but know heaven is hearing his wonderful voice and seeing his great smile. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Hey Mom, 
I just wanted to post on here to make sure that some of these stories are documented for the future. I know that right now it hurts to sit here and keep reading over and over these beautiful words. I also know that it probably will never completely stop hurting but I am so encouraged by all of these stories. 

The last time I spoke with Dad was on Valentines Day, just 9 days before he died. I remember feeling so happy when I saw his number show up on my phone. It felt so special that he would call me on this day of all days. Not simply for the obvious reasons of it being Valentines Day but because it was the anniversary of the NIU shooting that I had been on campus for. 

We talked on the phone for a while. He asked me about normal things. He wanted to know about my jobs, my new apartment, how music was going at church. I told him about our second service at church, I updated him on how school was going and how hard it was to live by myself now. He told me that ya'll were going to a Valentines Banquet that night at church and he was really looking forward to it. That may sound funny now, knowing that he ended up not liking the food, BUT, he was looking forward to going and spending time with you. 

The conversation was ended so normally with an, "OK, I'll talk to you later. Love you!" Now those words were the last words I heard from him and that is hard to understand right now. 

The last time I saw Dad was at the airport when I was coming home from my Christmas visit. We got there on time but my flight was delayed so instead of going into Security, we all sat out in the chairs playing Words With Friends against each other. I loved how much we were laughing and how competitive we were being with what word we were playing. I remember we heard an announcement over the loud speaker and Dad was convinced that it was paging someone to the men's bathroom. He thought that was hilarious and couldn't stop laughing about it! When it was time to go, I didn't want to have to go sit on the other side by myself without ya'll but I went. That was the last time I hugged Dad and said goodbye in person. This memory is so precious to me. 

I love you so much Mom. I miss Dad terribly but I know that God will hold us together. Angela, Joel, Daniel and I are praying for you. Our lives have forever been changed and yet, we know that our God is still good. He still has a purpose for our lives and He hasn't forgotten us. 

Love, 
Dawn

Rest in Peace Mr. Rodriguez. God Bless You.

Prayers for Mr. Rodriguez and his family.

So sorry for your loss Teresa and kids.  We were your neighbors on Lexington Dr. In Washington.  Prayers for the family.

I have known Frank since 1994.  We worked together at 3 different companies in those 20 years.  It was Frank who introduced me to the Christian Motorcycle Association.  

One of my early memories of Frank was during a team meeting with APS on Grand Lake in Oklahoma.  We were in a condo type dwelling where we were having the meeting.  As the afternoon seemed to drone on Frank out of the Blue just stood up and went to the kitchen while the President of the company was still talking.  We all thought he was getting a drink but then we hear pots rattling then the distinct sound and smell of food cooking.  It was at that time we asked what are you doing Franl and he stepped out of the kitchen and said it was dinner time we could continue the meeting in the morning.  After the laughter subsided we did exactly that.

On another occasion Frank and I were on top of Childrens Hospital in San Antonio testing a foam system on a rather warm day.  It was then he said hey Steve I am moving to Peoria Il to work for Getz.  I said Illinois? he said yes why?  I told him you know it gets cold there and snows not something a boy from south texas might understand.  He assured me he was well aware.  Years later he would admit he didnt know it would get THAT cold though.

Frank always had this typical biker look so when I first rode with Frank I anticiapted him to be a typical biker and be listening to rock music.  Much to my surprise when we came to our first stop and I turned off the rock music I was listening to, I hear this classical music and I was trying to locate the source.  Surely a gruffy biker wouldnt be listen to that..... how wrong was I, there was Frank "rocking out" to classical music....a man of many depths.

A few years ago Frank and I along with my wife Ladonna went on a group ride for a few days in the hill country with other workers from Tyco.  Frank was constantly there to "guard" Ladonna once he found out she had brought Crown to drink.  When we pulled in for a stop in Luckenbach, Frank was on his new Harley,  As we pulled into a gravel lot and came to stop Frank's bike leaned over and laid on the ground.  In one motion however he stepped right off of it just like he intended to park it that way.  One fo the guys behind him from Mississippi even yelled to him "hey they sure park their bikes funny here" ... needless to say we all including Frank busted out laughing.

There are more stories but on a personal note Frank always had time for others.  Ladonna and I both celebrated turning 50 over the past 45 days and Frank went out of his way to come by both celebration and hang out with us.  Those memories will remain with us forever.

My last conversation with Frank was Friday 2/21 in my office doorway as we talked about the upcoming week and as he said good night have a great weekend, I simply responded as I usually did with "be safe".  The one thing I miss already and its been just a week, is Frank appearing in my doorway at work and saying good night, see ya in the morning.  

Rest in Peace Frank, we will meet again in a better place.

My husband Troy, and I met Frank, Teresa and family through the Christian Motorcyclist Association (CMA).  I feel so blessed to be friends of this wonderful family.  I have known the Rodriguez's for about 5 years.  I want to share a couple of memories that really did make a positive impact on my life.  My husband Troy had planned a church run to our church for the Highway Disciples chapter.  The plan was to meet somewhere for dinner, and then we would ride our bikes to the church as a group.   Well, I remember it was a beautiful Saturday afternoon, and maybe this is why only about 6 members showed up for the run.  Frank was one of them, and as we fellowshipped and talked about God, I remembered being impressed with Frank's love and knowledge for the Lord.  Well, Troy was really let down by the low attendance for the church run.  He had told our pastor that a bunch of CMA bikers would be there, and the church had reserved seats for us, and had planned to talk a little about the CMA Ministry.  As we were finishing up dinner around 5:15, with the worship service to begin at 6:10, I was so surprised when I heard Frank on the phone asking Teresa and Daniel to hurry to church, so CMA could be well represented and make Troy feel better.  I remember that Teresa and Daniel were actually enjoying the afternoon by the pool when Frank called them.  Well, to my surprise within the hour, there was Teresa and Daniel at the church sitting with us.   I remember thinking what my answer to Troy would have been, are you kidding me.  Teresa with her quite spirit did not say or act as anything was wrong.  I remember us all being outside the church after the service, and Frank and Teresa joking around, and sharing a kiss.  We still have the picture of them kissing that night.  I remember thinking how godly it was for Teresa to support not only CMA, but her wonderful husband.  That act of obedience from both Frank and Teresa has never left my memory, and it never will.    
There was another time at a State Rally, where I was once again amazed at the love between Frank and Teresa.  Apparently, Frank had meant to call in a reservation for a private room for the 3 of them.  However, I guess he never got around to reserving the room, so there was only room in the lodge.  Teresa ended up having to stay in a lodge of about 20 women, and Frank and Daniel stayed in the men's lodge house.  Once again, Teresa with her quite spirit just smiled, even when I said, that I bet Frank was going to be in the doghouse.  I never heard her complain about it.  
I was forever touched and strengthen when I saw Dawn Rodriguez pointing up to her Lord and Savior during the “Victory in Jesus” song at the funeral.  I will never forget the message of salvation that pastor Dierdorf preached, along with the comforting words that Frank is now with Jesus, but only asleep until Jesus' second coming, when we will all meet again. Troy and I have nothing but honor and praise for this truly God driven family.  We will miss Frank, our brother, dearly.  We love you all, and hope to continue to be a part of your lives.  I only know that great things will come from his faithful and fruitful family life.

Where to start....he led his first service as  our new interim music minister and he was later hit with a bottle rocket  on New Year's Eve. He referred to his new Christmas sweater that was ruined as his holy sweater. And he still loved us.

Our daughters were friends and were welcome in both our homes. Driving Dawn home after a sleepover, she subtly invited me into her home to see two new puppies. I left a few hours later with 2 puppies that would be part of our family for the next 15 years.  
A short time later while the Rodriguez family was dog sitting, Ethel decided to cruise the neighborhood leaving Fred alone at night for the first time in his life.  Fred howled at night keeping the family up (Tersea was prego with Daniel). Ethel came back, Fred stopped howling and Frank  still loved us.
My car "kissed" Dawn's foot, sending her to the emergency room. Thankfully, she was fine. When we called to check on her, Frank was gracious and forgiving. Later in the conversation after we moved onto other topics, Frank asked us if we knew how to get a tire tread off a sandal. He still loved us.
Many new years parties, many weekends together, a Texas going away party,...he always loved us.

And we will always love him and his wonderful family.  Time and distance does not and cannot change that.

My heart is with Theresa and the kids.  I've known Frank for several years beginning when he first came to the Christian Motorcyclists Association Chapter in Katy.  We rode together quite a bit but just in the last couple of years had we really gotten closer.  I roomed with Frank on several occasions on out of town trips.  What a blessing for me.  Frank was always upbeat, happy and God centered.  He loved his family dearly as well as his Savior.  He inspired me to be a better Christian.  We will all miss him dearly.

Teresa and family,
So sorry to hear about Frank. We think of you often, especially in May during the cherry festival.  Those cherry tacos are yummy!! You are all in our thoughts and prayers!
Jerry and Maureen Isenberg

Theresa, Dawn, Angela and Daniel..... You're Daddy and husband kept my husband together at many jobs!  His work was awesome but his passion for Christ outshines that awesomeness!  I remember his stories of things he ribbed Steve about, Daniel's music talents, his love of Theresa is powerful and the photographs you have together are the most sensational family photos, I have EVER seen!  I love you guys and if you need a ear, shoulder or someone to just listen call me!  Always here for you Rodriguez family!  He was a dear friend!!!

Frank "Thumbs Up" Rodriguez was a beloved member of the Christian Motorcyclists Association (CMA).  Motorcyclists are, in general, a bit of a strange breed and one of our traditions is to assign "road names" - nicknames that are determined in much the same way as childhood nicknames.  

Road names are often assigned based on physical attributes (Slim, Stinky, Big Boy) or, more often, based on an unusual occurrence on the motorcycle (No Gas, Ice Man, Oil Drip).  Frank's road name was earned during a ride when, after he pulled onto the shoulder of the road, he signaled THUMBS UP- the thumbs up indicating to the other rider who was with him that everything was fine. 

With Frank, everything was fine - not just on the bike, but in life.  The positive image associated with an enthusiastic "thumbs up" fit Frank perfectly, so this became his road name.  He carried the joy of the Lord with him everywhere.  He smiled and laughed easily.  His intelligence gave him a quick wit and many talents, which he shared with his family and friends.  He was a committed family man, but he still had room in his heart and time on his schedule to share with others. 

Frank has gone before us to be with our Heavenly Father and we will miss him.  We were blessed to have him in our lives and our world will be a bit less joyful without Frank.  However, we won't be saddened by his passing, for he is in heaven - laughing, singing, praising, and, perhaps, riding the streets of gold.

All of CMA joins together in saluting Frank and the Rodriguez family with an enthusiastic, two-handed double THUMBS UP!  

It's all about Jesus!

I will always remember Frank's smile and his ever present kind words, and his willingness to do anything to help when help was needed. He was a tremendous support to the Morton Ranch HS Band, and all the students and parents he interacted with are blessed for having known him. The band will miss him terribly. Thank you Frank for your service and for shining the light of Jesus Christ to all who knew you!

To the Rodriguez Family,
What a heart warming tribute to Frank today at the service at your church.  He was a friend and a coworker of mine who taught me so much about Fire Protection with patience and knowledge. Words cannot express the sorrow that I feel for you all at this time.  My prayers are with you, his family.  Frank will be missed by all.  I hope you all find peace.  God Bless.

words cant express our sorrow.
What a great friend! We will remember him always. We love you dearly and are praying for the entire family.

Dear Teresa,
words can not express my sadness and grief for your loss. I always remember the wonderful times we had together with your family and Frank will always be my best friend and brother in Christ. He was greatly loved and will be greatly missed. You and the family will always remain in our prayers. We love you and the kids forever.

Teresa, so sorry for loss, dear friend. The Williams family will be praying for you and your family.

Sorry to hear of your loss !!  My praying are with you and your family

Sylvia B, Bynum

Teresa, Joe and I and all of our family are so sorry to learn of the terrible accident that took Frank from you.  All of us have been praying for you and your family, and we look forward to giving you big hugs on Friday, here.  Until then, know of our prayers for your peace and comfort.  Much love, dear Teresa.

Dearest Theresa and Family--  Our hearts break for you. Our memories of you and Frank are precious and priceless. Your ministry here was one of the highlights of our 35 years, and counting, in our sanctuary choir. Know that although we have not seen you for many years, you are, nevertheless, engraved in our memories and most definitely in our prayers. God WILL provide. Much love, Jack and Judy Kelley, FBC Devine, Texas

Truly sorry for your loss.  CMA New Life Riders Chapter from Peoria Illinois will keep you in prayer.

It was so heartbreaking to hear the news.  Frank will be missed by so many he had been a part of in the past, present, and those he wouldn't have been in the future.

We are broken hearted.  I can not imagine what you guys are going through.  Uncle Frank demonstrated how to be a Godly man with how he lived his life.  He passed on after leaving church and riding his Harley; two things I know he enjoyed.  It is little comfort I know.  I know Frank is with his Father in heaven.  We will be praying for God's comfort for you guys in the days to come.

My heart aches for you all! Frank would bring tears to my eyes every time he sang to the Lord here at FBC Washington, Il. My all time favorite was when he would sing "Via Dolorosa" at Easter...Praying you all through this very difficult time..Love you, Teresa, Dawn, Angela and Daniel!

We are so sorry for what you all are going through.  Had some fun and wonderful memories at FBC Washington of you two girls in Acteens, as well as singing in the choir under Frank's direction.  Miss those times a lot.  Glad your family is a part of those memories.  Randy and I were talking just recently about Frank.  He was sharing a story of how that every time the alarm goes off at his job, Frank's voice comes booming over the speaker giving instructions in the case of a drill or real emergency (since he installed the system there years ago). His voice will never be forgotten.  We are so very sorry.  Praying for you all.
Randy and Jeannie Nabors & Rebekah

My heart is broken for your family and I'm grieving with you all.  A memory of Frank that I will never forget is the "ghost story" he told at my 5 year old slumber party for my birthday. The scariest line was when he moaned "Where's my golden arm????"  We all had trouble sleeping after that, but it was definitely the highlight of the party!

Dear Family: Frank was a super guy.  I have memories of when he would come into my office at FBC Washington and we would talk about things, he always made me feel better.  He had such a tender heart and could he ever sing, he could make you cry or smile, his songs were powerful.  You always knew he was singing for the Lord now he is singing with the Lord.                             Ray and Carole Vanderburg (Washington, IL)

You will be dearly missed by many! But I know you are singing praises with Jesus!

My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I can't even begin to list all the great memories of Frank when he was the Music leader here at FBC Washington. Best memory was the year he entered the Cherry Recipe contest at the Washington Cherry Festival. When I 1st heard the words "Cherry Taco's". I thought GROSS even before I even knew what they were. I was thinking of regular taco's using ground beef and having cherries on them. But low and behold the 1st one I bought at the festival was out of this world fantastic. I ended up eating 4 of them that year. Every year except last year, I have made it a tradition to go to the festival for the famous "Cherry Taco's"!
I also remember all the Christmas and Easter programs you lead the choir in. Your black tux with red bow tie at Christmas was always sharp with those cowboy boots!  He made music come alive and had a great sense of humor. 
When I pick up a Cherry taco at the Festival, it will bring great memories and heart warming when I eat it in your  honor.
R.I.P Frank! You are riding with the angels on your Harley!

Dear sweet Sister and Dawn, Angela and Daniel,  Our hearts go out to you.  Frank was a wonderful man, a great friend to all, a wonderful singer.  I was always so proud to know such a great man.  His smile reflected his heart.  He loved everything he did and he loved so much.  I know Heaven welcomed him home with great rejoicing.  We will miss him but will see him someday.  Our prayers are always with you. Love, Brenda and Harry

Teresa and family, I know your hearts are heavy.   This was not the "ddddttt Newsflash" that I wanted today.   But I can still hear Frank's voice giving Newsflash updates on Freedom Singer trips.   I think of Frank often. Every time my ribs hurt from falling in Vancouver, I can remember and almost feel Frank holding me up.   I hear him singing "I go to the Rock" and many more Freedom Singer and choir tunes.  His big heart, voice and personality will be missed by many, but none more than his family that he loved so much.   God bless you and know that you are loved.   Deborah & Paul Dabbs

From the MRHS band, you will be missed. Thanks for all the help during marching season.

Our prayers and condolences are with you all!  Many wonderful, fond memories of your time with us at FBC Devine!! Zach and Debbie Beadle and Patsy Bush

OBITUARY

Frank C. Rodriguez

November 7, 1959 – February 23, 2014

Katy Funeral Home

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