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BORN

1947

DIED

2026

Daniel Rodriguez Obituary

Daniel Paul Rodriguez, 78, was called by the Lord on January 28, 2026. Born and raised in Chicago's southside, Danny was a lifelong White Sox fan and loved everything about the city. He was well versed in its history and loved sharing unique, fun facts with others.

Danny joined the United States Navy in 1970 and received his BSN to become a registered nurse. After 23 years of active duty service he retired from Great Lakes, having achieved the rank of lieutenant commander.

Following retirement, Danny settled in Kenosha, Wisc., where he resided until his death. He remained active in many military and civic organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, Rotary Club, American Legion Post 552 of Somers, Wisc., Salvation Army, Moose Lodge of Beaufort, S.C. and U.S.S. Yorktown CV-10.

Perhaps Danny's most cherished organization was Kenosha Forgotten Friends, from where he adopted many faithful feline companions over the years: TT, Dixie, Pepper and Lilly.

Danny was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse and June Rodriguez; and his infant sister, Kathy. He is survived by his brother, Glenn (Jean) Rodriguez of Virginia Beach, Va.; and his sister, Kathleen Jo (late Robert) Green of New Lenox, Ill. Danny leaves behind eight children: Valerie, Kevin, Jude, Theresa, Marlen, Heather, Colleen and Dominic, and their spouses, along with 21 grandchildren, one great-grandchild, and many cousins, nieces and nephews.

The family asks that you remember Danny by honoring what meant most to him: giving gratitude to veterans, respecting our country's flag, practicing your faith, helping a neighbor, or, if able, providing a home to an animal in need.

Services will be held at St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church in Old Mill Creek, Ill. on Saturday, January 31, 2026: 9:30 to 11a.m. viewing, followed by 11 a.m. mass. Interment with full military honors will take place at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Ill. on Monday, February 2nd at 12:30 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Kenosha Forgotten Friends or any veteran organization, in Danny's name.
Published by Kenosha News on Jan. 30, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for Daniel Rodriguez

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6 Entries

Spring & Mike Graves

February 1, 2026

Mike and I met Danny at St. Marks Parrish. He was teaching RCIA and Bible study. We frequently ended up at Culver´s for ice cream afterwards .He was a true gentleman of God a scholar and Patriot. He embraced and encouraged our whole family. His quick wit and sense of humor was always appreciated. We wore Jeans to his service because he teased us that "dungarees" were not appropriate attire for Church. He also joked about whether God would give us the thumbs up or down when we passed on, we all agree that he would get the . Rest in peace Danny

Arnold E. Gentz

January 31, 2026

We are saddened at the news of Danny's passing. He was a great worker and added to our post with different ideas. He will be missed and remembered by many who knew him. "Every time (His) bell is rung at the post, we will remember, Danny was here"! Our prayers are with Danny and his family during this time. Danny, may your ship come safely into port on your final voyage. David Leet American Legion, post 552. Arnie Gentz, Commander

Alain and Dianne Oller

January 31, 2026

Our condolences to the Rodriguez Family. Danny was a trusted friend, fellow veteran, and steadfast Rotarian. He will certainly be missed be missed by all who knew him. So long Danny.

Dave Lyons

January 30, 2026

I had the pleasure of knowing Danny and visiting with him at Legion functions. My thoughts and prayers are with him and his family at this time.
Dave Lyons
Adjutant - Squadron 21; Sons of the American Legion.

Jon Lyons

January 30, 2026

As Aumonier for the 40&8 Voiture 410 as well as Chaplain for American Legion Post 21 and Sons of The American Legion Squadron 21/District1, my prayers and condolences go out to his family and friends. I would contact him at least once a week sometimes more to make sure he was doing ok and didn´t need anything. I built a strong bond with him and really enjoyed talking with him, especially the good old days. I will miss him dearly but I know he´s in good hands, son of God who is at his finally at his resting place. God take your son and raise him high! At least your at rest now and can live an eternal life with God! He donated every month to the Nurses Training program for the 40&8, in memory of him I will continue to make that donation for him! God Bless!

Trent Niles & Linda Esposito

January 30, 2026

We are saddened to hear of Dan´s passing. He was a wonderful person we will miss him. At Somers American Legion he was always friendly and welcoming to all!

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Memorial Events
for Daniel Rodriguez

Jan

31

Viewing

9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church

Old Mill Creek, IL

Jan

31

Funeral Mass

11:00 a.m.

St. Raphael the Archangel Catholic Church

Old Mill Creek, IL

Feb

2

Interment

12:30 p.m.

Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery

Elwood, IL

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