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Manuel Rodriguez Obituary
Dr. Manuel C. Rodriguez (Satch) passed away peacefully on Friday May 14th, 2021 due to diabetes complications. He was 83. He was surrounded by his family, the most important thing in his life, and went to be with our Lord forevermore.
Dr. Rodriguez was born in a small house on Beck Street in Nogales, AZ on February 26, 1938 to his parents Guillermo and Julia Rodriguez. He attended Nogales Public Schools and graduated in 1957. He received his BS at Arizona State College on a baseball scholarship and was awarded MVP. This is where he met the love of his life, Patricia Rollins from Monroe, MI. The two wed in 1961 in Nogales, AZ. He then received his Masters of Spanish at the University of Iowa. He obtained his doctorate in Spanish and Portugese Literature at the University of Arizona. He went on to become a Professor of Modern Languages at Northern Arizona University. He assisted in the development and implementation of the Spanish immersion program for the state of Arizona.
Manuel was an active member of the Elks Lodge since 1975 and tirelessly supported his community. He served as Exalted Ruler in 1980-81, and later became the State President in 2001-2002. Known as Satch to his friends, he was the life of the party and well known at NAU, The Elks Lodge, and loved by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his father Guillermo, his mother Julia, his sister Gloria, and his brother, Gullermo (Lemi). He is survived by his wife of nearly 60 years, Patt, his children Chyle, Candy, and Charles (Maia). He also leaves behind grandchildren Kody, Cheyenne, Kaia, Dillon, Casey, Taylor, and Will (RJ).
A viewing will take place on Sunday May 23rd,2021 from 4-6pm at Norvel Owens Mortuary. The Funeral Mass will be on Monday May 24th,2021 at 10:30am at San Francisco de Asis Catholic Church followed by graveside services. A memorial will take place at the Flagstaff Elks Lodge starting at 1pm. All are welcome to attend and celebrate Manuel's life.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Manuel Rodriguez
Sponsored by Norvel Owens Mortuary - Flagstaff.
Joseph Pratte
May 31, 2021
Patt and family, I just now received the news that Satch had passed away recently. Manny was a strong, proud and generous man. He enriched many and was always there for anyone. I will miss him dearly.
Ed/Susan Vesely
May 29, 2021
Just wanted to let you know that we´re very sorry to hear that Manny had passed. He was so good about helping The Ritual team get ready for competition. He made them work! Hugs to you and yours.
Joan and Ron Pinson
May 23, 2021
Our sincere sympathies to Patt, the family and grandchildren. Satch will be missed by all but the memories will always be there. Satch set an example of how people should live their lives, helping and educating others. Rest in peace now.
PSP - Arizona Elks
May 23, 2021
Our thoughts are with you Patt - Manny will never be forgotten and never forsaken.
Ben Cleveland
May 22, 2021
I went to high school with "Satch." He was a friend. My condolences to his family.
Chris somerville
May 21, 2021
Patt and Family,
Sadly, I send a message of condolences for another passing of a friend and for you and yours the loss of a husband, father and grandfather. Our family has recently experienced that same grief and sadness . We are finding joy with all who remain and I hope you will, too. Family and friends provide great comfort!
Dawn Orosz
May 21, 2021
Aunt Patt & family I´m so very sorry for your loss, uncle Manuel was a wonderful person, keeping you all in my prayers
Ernestina
May 21, 2021
I took two semesters of Spanish from Dr. Rodriguez. He made the class about conversation by playing music (Vickie Carr), encouraging skits, assigning essay writing. He made learning fun. My condolences to his family. Be comforted in knowing that he made such a difference by impacting the lives of his students.
Mary Friend
May 21, 2021
Sorry to hear about Manuel´s passing. He was one of a kind, with a special emphasis on "kind".
Condolences to Pat and her family.
From one of Pat´s closest neighbors at EFJH for years .. Best wishes Pat.
Glenn and Paula Vicker and our family
May 21, 2021
We have known Satch and the Rodriguez family for nigh onto 20 something years. Loved the Christmas parties at Satch's home. He was an interesting and intelligent man with a great sense of humor. He will be missed by all who knew him.
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