Rodolfo "Rudy" Somoza

Rodolfo “Rudy” Somoza, Phoenix, Arizona passed away peacefully into the hands of our Lord on Sunday, October 13, 2024. Rudy had a smile, sense of humor, and personality that could light up an entire city. His charisma was one that you will remember for a lifetime if you had the opportunity to truly know him.

He was a wonderful, caring son, brother, father, uncle, cousin, friend, and acquaintance to many throughout his life.

He was born in Blythe, California on October 31, 1960, although raised in Phoenix, Arizona since childhood.

Rodolfo is preceded in death by his parents, Maria Franco Somoza and Pablo Somoza, as well as his siblings Pablo Jr., Victor, and Richard.

He is survived by his three children: Brittney Somoza, Brianna Somoza, and Christopher Michael Somoza; siblings include Edward (Anna), George, and Guadalupe Somoza Gallego (Mario). Additional survivors include Sylvia Somoza, mother of his daughters, Bernadette Trujillo Diaz, mother of his son, & caretaker and longtime friend John Diaz. Rodolfo also had many nephews, nieces, cousins as well, in addition to many friends & acquaintances throughout the years.

He attended Phoenix Elementary schools, West Phoenix high school, and received his degree in Global Business Management from the University of Phoenix. He held multiple positions for different companies in Arizona throughout the many years, including Motorola, Intel, Inovalon, and positions in the sales industry before becoming disabled in late 2019.

Rodolfo loved music, including the sounds of older R&B and classic funk sounds of 1970s. He enjoyed listening to live bands locally throughout the greater part of Phoenix, and made friends with the many musicians throughout the years.

Fly high and dance in heaven pain-free, Rudy. We will miss you dearly, but we will see you again one day. No goodbyes, but only see you soon. And in his final famous words, “JOIN US!!”. 

A memorial will be held from 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 9, 2024, at Whitney & Murphy Funeral Home, 4800 E. Indian School Road, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Reception details will be announced in person following the memorial service.