Joseph R. Rodriguez

Racine – Joseph R. Rodriguez, 81, passed away at WFH All Saints Hospital on Saturday, March 6, 2010. He was born in San Antonio, Texas on September 28, 1928, son of Theodore and Monica (nee: Rangel) Rodriguez. He was a Racine resident for most of his life. On February 14, 1948 he was united in marriage to Connie Garcia in Gary, Indiana. Mr. Rodriguez was a member of St. Lucy’s Catholic Church Joseph retired from JI Case Company following 25 years of service, after already working at Racine Malleable Iron for more than 20 years. He was a very hard worker, and completely dedicated to his wife and family. He enjoyed attending church with his family, Sunday brunch, and long walks with Connie. He was extremely proud of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and loved them very much. Surviving are his children, Diana (Roger) Phillips of Racine; Joseph E. (Betty Rathke) Rodriguez of Mt. Pleasant; Julie (Jim) Casey of Gurnee, Illinois; and Dennis (Charlotte) Rodriguez of Union Grove; seven grandchildren, Ronnie Phillips, Denise (Anthony) Johnson, Danny Phillips and Kevin Phillips all of Racine; Jimmy Casey of Gurnee; Constance Rodriguez of Milwaukee; and Leah Jo Rodriguez of Union Grove; five great-grandchildren, Amanda and Chandler Johnson; Chloey, Miah, and Jordan Phillips. He is further survived by eight sisters, and many other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Connie; his brother, Santos Rodriguez; and his dear friends, Roberto Mandujano and Consuelo Sanchez. The Funeral Mass for Mr. Rodriguez will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 11, 2010 at St. Lucy Catholic Church, 3101 Drexel Ave., with Rev. Mark R. Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Caledonia. Visitation will be held in the funeral home Wednesday evening from 4pm – 7 pm. The Holy Rosary will be recited at 7pm. There will also be a visitation at the church on Thursday from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. A special note of thanks to Dr. Ned S. Mejelli for his kindness and the care provided to Joseph and his family.