Carlos Alberto Rodriguez

Mr. Carlos A. Rodriguez, 59, a beloved father, brother, husband and friend answered the Lord’s call and stamped his first-class ticket into Heaven on Monday, November 30, 2020, in San Antonio, TX, while being surrounded by his loving family, Maggie, Michelle & Carlos, Jr. (Teco).

Carlos was called by the Lord after a brief battle with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Despite the circumstances he was up against, Carlos fully dedicated his life to the Lord, his savior, which kept him in a place of love, peace and happiness despite his medical condition. He was a devoted follower of Christ and attended Mass every Sunday (in-person or virtually) and encouraged all those who he dearly loved to get closer to God and always keep him first above all.

A strong man of faith, he prayed deeply and instilled faith in his family.  His faith allowed him to face challenges head on and his spirit was never broken. Above all, he was proud of his family and was happiest when surrounded by them. Carlos loved his family beyond what words can describe. A loving wife, a daughter and son whom he guided to become successfully independent and who will cherish his memory and legacy for years to come.

Carlos was a passionate outdoorsman, hunter, rancher, golfer, successful businessman, a friend to many and so much more. He touched countless lives during his time here on earth. A true gentleman with dignity and respect for himself and others was how most people would describe him. Carlos truly lived for the outdoors and creating memories with his family at their ranch and vacation getaways.  He loved listening to his classic rock music and had an extensive playlist for any occasion. His taste of music included Bob Seger, The Eagles, Boston, Lynyrd Skynyrd to name a few. Most would describe Carlos as old school, classic, original and that was who he was, a simple man with so much heart and so much to give.

Carlos was kindhearted and always was willing to help anyone. Whether it be donating meals at the Feast of Sharing, clothes to the needy, or simply calling family or old friends to see how they were doing or if they needed help with anything. He played a father figure to many people and his time here with us was a testament to his true character and the genuine love had. Carlos life motto was “if it sparks joy, get it, or do it.”

Carlos graduated from J.W. Nixon High School ‘79 (Laredo, TX) and St. Mary’s University ‘83 (San Antonio, TX). After graduating with a Bachelor’s in Business Marketing from St. Mary’s. Carlos began his career as a department manager at a local sporting goods store in San Antonio. This was initiated by his father Luis in order for Carlos to get a few years of business experience prior to him joining Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company, a family run business in Laredo. After several years, Carlos & Maggie later moved back home to Laredo, to help run the company. There he served under his father Luis and Uncle Reynaldo as the Sales Manager. He held this role for over 25 years. During his tenure with Pepsi-Cola, Carlos played a key role in the community. He created and nurtured many business relationships, friendships with local leaders, community members, other businesses and law enforcement. Carlos spent many years of his life with Pepsi-Cola dedicated to helping and improving his community through hosting charity events, donations, fundraisers, drives etc. Carlos officially retired in 2013 and begin his new life chapter in spending more time with his family and at their ranch.

Prior to his diagnosis of ALS, he was an avid golfer, playing at least twice a week, where he won many local tournaments. Although most knew he didn’t hit the ball far, he did consistently hit those fairways and what got him his low scores. Carlos will truly be missed but not forgotten. His spirit will stay with us forever and his memory will be forever with us.

Left to cherish his memory are his beloved wife, Maggie Rodriguez, their children; Carlos (Cristina) Rodriguez, Jr., Michelle Rodriguez (Herson Rivas), siblings; Mary (Fred) Shepherd, Cordy (Eddie) Martinez, Leslie (Oscar) Garcia, George (Magdalena) Rodriguez as well as many family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; Luis A. Rodriguez & Betty West Rodriguez, siblings; Luis A. Rodriguez, Jr., Robert “Bobby” Rodriguez and Betty (Daniel) Gonzalez.

Visitation will be held on Saturday morning, Dec. 5th, 2020, between 8:00-11:30 am at Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels, 1410 Jacaman Rd, where a Vigil will be held at 10:00 am. At 11:45 am the funeral procession will be departing from Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels to St. Patrick Catholic Church, 555 E. Del Mar Blvd, for a Holy Mass of Christian Burial at 12:00 pm. Rite of Committal & Interment will follow to the Calvary Catholic Cemetery.

We extend our utmost appreciation to everyone planning to attend his services. However, for those who cannot join us in-person, the Vigil and Holy Mass will be available virtually (via Facebook). The live stream services will commence as follows: 10:00 am (Joe Jackson Funeral Chapels), followed by Mass at 12:00 pm (St. Patrick Catholic Church).

Pallbearers will include Carlos A. Rodriguez Jr., Roberto Bobby Rodriguez Jr., George West Rodriguez, Fred Shepherd, Daniel Gonzalez, Trey Garcia, David Garcia, Jr., Tony Arce, Jr., Gilbert Munoz.

Honorary Pallbearers will include Matt Shepherd, Louie Rodriguez, James Kirkendall, Beto Sanchez, Gera Ramirez, Carlos Y. Benavides III

The Rodriguez Family would like to extend their most heartfelt gratitude to The ALS Association (South Texas Chapter), Dr. Carlayne Jackson, Dr. Fernando Sanchez and all the staff and team that helped Carlos through his battle with ALS. A special thanks to Methodist Specialty & Transplant Hospital (San Antonio) and their incredible team of doctors, nurses and staff; most notably Christina Hartman, RN and Jay Grossman, RN.

The family would also like to give a special thanks to his dear friend Tony Arce, Jr. and all the extended family and friends that gave Carlos the love and support during his battle with ALS.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that you consider making a donation to: The ALS Association (South Texas Chapter), 4939 De Zavala Rd, Suite 105, San Antonio, TX 78249, www.alstexas.org/donate to continue the fight for a cure in memory of Carlos.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Joe Jackson North Funeral Chapels, 1410 Jacaman Rd., Laredo, Texas 78041.  The family requests those wanting to express their condolences to sign the guestbook online for Carlos at www.joejacksonfuneralchapels.com.