Rolando Reiter Obal

Rolando (Rod) Reiter Obal

July 6, 1953 - July 8, 2024

Rod was born in Alameda County, California the second child of Pastor and Rosie Obal. As a child Rod enjoyed animation and with his older brother Danny frequently drew and made Claymation-styled animations. He was described as very energetic and a little mischievous. Rod along with his four brothers and three sisters worked in their parent’s business Obal’s Oriental Market in Long Beach practically from the time they could walk into their teenage years.

At 17 years of age, Rod joined the Marine Corps where he served in combat in Vietnam. Though he completed his tour and was set to be sent home, Rod completed his best friend’s tour, who was killed in action, as a way of honoring his friend’s memory.

After Vietnam, Rod returned to being a civilian but quickly decided to rejoin the military, but this time he joined the Army. While in the Army, Rod became a Special Forces member earning his Jump Boots and Green Beret. He served for 26 years earning numerous citations and awards including the rarely awarded Legion of Merit.

After retiring from the Army, Rod wasn’t done “serving” and he joined the Customs and Border Protection where he stopped many illegal substances and people from entering the U.S. illegally. He retired from CBP after serving more than 20 years.

Rod is survived by his wife Becky and son Patrick. Rod’s family includes his brother Danny (passed away) and wife Jeanie their sons Jason and Michael. His brother Renny and his wife Nita, His brother Lee and wife Sabrina and their children Christine. Angela, Cheri, Joe, Greg and Shawn. His sister Tessie Garrett and her husband Tony (passed-away) and their children Jasmine and Becky. His sister Rosie Jones and her husband Kelly their sons Ryan and Matthew. Rosie’s twin-sister Rosa Clemens and her husband Mark and their sons Kenny, Ernie and Steven. His brother Rick and his wife Susan and their sons Michael and Robert.

Visitation will be from 4:00 - 8:00pm on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 at Sunset Funeral Home - Northeast, 4631 Hondo Pass Dr. Funeral Service will begin at 12:00pm On Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Mountain View Baptist Church, 4959 Hondo Pass Dr. Committal Service to follow at 1:30pm on Thursday, July 18, 2024 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery, 5200 Fred Wilson Ave.