Ricardo "Rick" Rodriguez Jr.

Ricardo "Rick" Rodriguez, Jr., passed away peacefully on June 20, 2025, surrounded by family inhis home in Weed, California. He was 76 years old. Rick was born on August 2, 1948, in Santa Barbara, California, to Emilia Gomez Solis Rodriguezand Ricardo Rodriguez. He was the second of five siblings, and though life wasn't always easygrowing up, it taught him the value of hard work, perseverance, and family. He attended OurLady of Guadalupe School and later graduated from Santa Barbara High School, where heexcelled in football and basketball. His work ethic showed early-he delivered newspapers atjust 8 years old and went on to have a long and varied career in food service and hospitality. Over the years, Rick held roles ranging from dishwasher and cook to restaurant manager, CFO,and owner. His career included time at Jolly Tiger, Sambos, John Muir's Deli, Restaurant ETC,Heidi Pies, Lilly's Restaurant, and Lake Shastina Golf Resort. He also worked as a butcher anddairy deliveryman. Cooking wasn't just his job-it was his way of caring for others. He lovedfeeding people and creating a sense of connection through food. At the age of 37, Rick was diagnosed with heart failure and was advised to get a transplant. Hechose instead to trust the heart he had-and lived nearly four more decades with it. Fifteenyears ago, he faced pancreatic cancer and bravely underwent the Whipple procedure, followedby chemotherapy and radiation. He also survived a stroke just three years ago, walking awaywith only minor deficits. His strength and humor never wavered. His family often joked he hadnine lives, and each one was filled with courage, resilience, and quiet grace. Rick moved to Weed in 1992 and spent the last 33 years there, building a life with his wife andyoungest children. He loved golf and spent countless joyful days on the course at Lake ShastinaGolf Resort, where he built lifelong friendships. In his younger years, he enjoyed surfing, dirtbiking, snow and water skiing, boating, and playing basketball. He also gave his timegenerously to his community-volunteering as a coach, referee, board member, and supporterof youth sports. Rick is survived by his loving wife of 38 years, Debra Sullivan Rodriguez; his five children:Kimberly Riedl (Ken), Jeffrey Rodriguez (Elizabeth), Jennifer Rodriguez, Richard Rodriguez,and Maryssa Rodriguez; and his grandchildren: Jacob Rodriguez, Alyssa Garcia (Ivan), ElyssaNagel (Seth), Shelby Viviano, Jordan Matts (Donald), and Deonne Loya (Richard). He is alsosurvived by his siblings: Natalia "Nellie" Dougherty (Albert) and John Rodriguez (LeeAnn). Hewas preceded in death by his parents and siblings, Joseph Rodriguez and Terri Nimtz. To know Rick was to love him. He had a contagious smile, sparkling eyes, a steady presence,and a heart that quietly gave so much. He wasn't always one to say how he felt, but he showedit-in the meals he made, the time he gave, and the humor that lifted every room he walkedinto. He lived simply, but his impact was lasting. A Celebration of Life will be held on what would have been Rick's 77th birthday-August 2,2025, at 2:00 p.m. on the patio at Lake Shastina Golf Resort. Appetizers, desserts, lemonade,and iced tea will be served. All who knew and loved Rick are welcome to come, remember, andcelebrate a life full of laughter, love, and strength.

Ricardo "Rick" Rodriguez Jr.

August 2, 1948 - June 20, 2025