Robert M. Rodriguez

Robert Manuel Rodriguez, 72, passed away on Tuesday, August 4, 2020 in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

He was born July 7, 1948, in Brooklyn New York to Esther and Oscar Rodriguez, as their fourth child. Robert had three brothers whom preceded him in death, Oscar “Paul” Rodriguez (2015), Orlando Rodriguez (2011) and James Rodriguez (2003). Robert spent his childhood living between Cuba, New York, and Florida. He traveled with his father while he still obtained dual citizenship between the United States and Cuba. Robert attended Abraham Lincoln High School in Brooklyn New York. He also attended Albuquerque’s Technical Vocational Institute in the early 1990’s. He earned his Journeyman Plumber’s License in October of 1992. Throughout his career Robert was a well-regarded painter, plumber, and handyman. At two separate times in his life Robert was the owner of two successful businesses, a painting business in New York and a maintenance business called Columbo the Fix it Man, in Albuquerque.

In 1976 Robert married Ruthann Pace. One child, Brian Pace, from a previous relationship also became his child. To Robert and Ruthann two children were born, Rafael Antonio Rodriguez (born 1977, married to Kristina Rodriguez) and Natalia Helene Rodriguez Long (born 1978, married to BJ Long).  In the 1980’s the family relocated from the Bronx, New York to Albuquerque, NM. On October 8th, 1992 Ruthann Rodriguez passed away with Robert by her side. In 1994 Robert married Peggy Coleman of Albuquerque, NM. Four children from a previous relationship, Wayland Strickland, Raymond Strickland, Jerry Strickland, and Lorianne Strickland, also became apart of Robert’s family.

Fun facts about Robert Manuel Rodriguez- Robert’s favorite drink was Pepsi. His favorite food was Italian and Cuban/Puerto Rican food. He loved mangos, cheesecake, and antipasti (olives, cheeses and deli meats). He loved to travel and be at the beach/ocean. He enjoyed fishing and going shooting. His favorite music was oldies from artists like Elvis, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Frank Sinatra, and Bobby Darin. Robert loved to build and fix things with his hands, he was a very talented handyman who often remodeled and beautified houses and yards. He was very gifted in the areas of mathematics and science. Robert was fluent in two languages, Spanish and English.

Robert was a proud Papa of eight grandchildren with whom he was a large part of their lives. Christina Long (22 years old), Braylin Rodriguez (21 years old), Gabriella Rodriguez (16 years old), Samantha Long (15 years old), Robert Rodriguez (his name sake, 13 years old), Victoria Rodriguez (12 years old), Briana Long (10 years old), and Kristopher Rodriguez (6 years old).

In retirement Robert and Peggy enjoyed traveling, going out to eat, visiting the grandchildren, doing crafts and remodeling houses together. Robert was sometimes ornery and was referred to by his son, “a straight shooter that would tell you as it is” which is what made him unique. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Robert's Life Celebration will begin with a Visitation on Monday, August 17, 2020 at 6:00 pm at Salazar Mortuary located at 400 Third St SW, 87102. Rosary will be recited at 6:30 pm also at Salazar Mortuary. A Service will take place on Tuesday, August 18, 2020 at 11:00 am at Trinity Family Church located at 6101 Paradise Blvd NW, 87114. Burial will follow at Sunset Memorial Park located at 924 Menaul Blvd NE, 87107.

Pallbearers will be Rafael Rodriguez, BJ Long, Robert Rodriguez, Robert Wood, Rick Arquette, Joseph Consiglio, Jerry Strickland, and Michael Scibel.

Due to the COVID restrictions set in place by the Governor Masks are MANDATORY to attend the services at Salazar Mortuary, Trinity Family Church, and Sunset Memorial Park.

The Mortuary has a capacity of 50 people inside the funeral home at one time and Trinity Family Church has a capacity of 100 people.