Carlos Rafael "Rod" Rodriguez

Carlos Rafael "Rod" Rodriguez passed away Thursday, July 22, 2021, at a local hospital. Rod was well known for his photography studio that he and his wife owned for more than 30 years - Creations IV Photography. Rod was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and raised from a young child in New York. Having won awards in New York for his photography entries, made it a natural path for him to take into life.
Mr. Rodriguez was a veteran of the Vietnam war while serving in the Air Force in the mid 60s. After Vietnam, he continued his studies at McNeese State Universtiy earning a BS degree while also continuing to work in his field of study at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital.
Rod was married to Gaynell Poole whom he met while attending Big Lake Gospel Tabernacle Church. They divorced in 1980, but he remained a member and secretary/treasurer at the church for the next 40 years.
Mr. Rodriguez married Angeline "Angie" Abate, and they celebrated 40 years of marriage just days prior to his passing.
Rod came from a large family now scattered around the U.S.: Jay Montero, Eric Rodriguez, Maggie Aber, Maria Belardo, and Ceyi Banuchi. He was preceded in death by his brother, Cesar Rodriguez; and sister, Margie Soto.
Even though Rod never fathered any children of his own, he loved his step-children, Ricky (Julie) Abate and Shiela Abate (Blaine) Doucet as much as any father could love his children. Then the grandchildren, Devin Sikes, Alyssa Abate, and Ty Doucet were just the icing on the cake.
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Rod's very special caregivers, Joan White and Tina Rougeau and longtime physical therapist, Brenda Hazel.
Since he donated his body to science, a small family gathering will be held at a later date.
We love and miss you babe.