Norberto Felipe Rodriguez

A 38 year resident in the state of Arizona, he diligently devoted his life to God and provided for his family in so many ways, which went beyond his strong work ethic. Whether it was attending his young children’s (and eventually grandchildren’s) sporting events and school functions or taking family bike rides on the weekends, he always remembered that God and family came first. An honorable, kind, and loving individual who no matter the circumstance, greeted everyone with his cheerful smile and selflessly gave of himself.

He was born on June 6, 1939, in Hormigueros, Puerto Rico, to parents Luisa Rodriguez Pesante and Pedro Rodriguez. Norbert, his parents and 3 siblings, migrated to the U.S. mainland when he was 9 years old, settling in New York City. There he completed his education and went on to attend trade school. In 1960, he began his long-term career job with the Hobart Corporation as a service technician and in time, a service manager, eventually retiring in 2002. In 1967, while living in New York City, he met and married his wife of 54 years, Marcelina Rodriguez (who passed away in 2023). In 1971, Norbert, his wife Marcelina, and 2 young children (Norbert Jr and Marly) relocated to Albuquerque, New Mexico where they would welcome 2 additional daughters (Ruby and Susy) and reunite with their 5 older sons (Rene, Oscar, Hector, Amilcar, and Marvin.) Together, Norbert and Marcelina would go on to raise 9 children.

Aside for his love of family, Norbert was also devoted to his church and faith. He volunteered as a church bus driver at Phoenix First Assembly of God, picking up the disadvantaged members of the community who desired to attend church. While living in New Mexico, he served as a church usher and interim pastor when needed. When he wasn’t occupied with personal obligations, he enjoyed his leisure time. Norbert was an accomplished bowler who loved spending his Thursday nights playing on his bowling league. He enjoyed watching old westerns, comedies and baseball, more specifically watching the New York Yankees play. His other pastimes included, listening to “champagne music” (particularly big band arrangements) and exercising. But mostly he loved the time he spent with his wife Marcelina. Their weekends were spent visiting friends and dancing to salsa music. In his later years, his full time job was lovingly caring for his wife who battled with Alzheimer’s and spending time with his beloved adult children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his six sons and 3 daughters:

· Norbert Rodriguez Jr. (Perla), and grandson Zane

· Marly Nuuhiwa (Jeffrey)

· Ruby Kwan (James) and grandchildren Elise and Evan

· Susy Choat (Johnny Jr.) and grandchildren Nicklas, Johnny III, and Giuliuana

· Amilcar Monroy (Margarita) and granddaughters Natalie and Brianna

· Marvin Monroy and grandchildren Sasha, Tobias, and Samantha

· Rene Monroy

· Oscar Monroy

· Hector Monroy

Along with 8 great grandchildren, and his younger sister Carmen Luisa. Norbert leaves behind a legacy of love, guidance and support, along with feelings of pride, hope, and a sense of responsibility that will continue to help his children and grandchildren navigate life’s journey. And although he has left a void in our lives, we will always have the beautiful memories he leaves in our hearts.

Please join us in celebrating his life Saturday morning April 5, 2025, at Greenwood Memory Lawn Mortuary chapel, 719 North 27th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85009. Services and visitation are scheduled to begin at 10:30 am, followed by the committal service at Greenwood Memory Lawn Cemetery.