Roman Guadalupe Rodriguez

Roman Guadalupe Rodriguez, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on May 1, 2025, at his home, surrounded by family.
Born on August 9, 1948, in Celaya, Guanajuato, Mexico, Roman immigrated to Chicago in 1953 with his family, seeking freedom from religious persecution. They began their new journey in the Pilsen neighborhood. Roman graduated from St. Philip Basilica High School and attended Loop Junior College of Chicago before earning a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts from Chicago State University. He later obtained a Master's Degree in Social Work from Loyola University.
Throughout his life, Roman dedicated himself to helping others and serving his community. He served as Vice President of the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council in 1975 and was a passionate community organizer in both Pilsen and Blue Island. As Regional Director for the Illinois Migrant Council, he advocated for the rights of migrant workers and wrote a column, "Roman's Corner," for the local paper. A proud member of the Organization of Latin American Students (OLAS), Roman supported and participated in the first Fiesta del Sol and was actively involved in the Chicano Movement. He drove across the country to take part in the Chicano Moratorium, a significant protest against the Vietnam War held in Los Angeles in 1970. When his draft number was called, Roman filed and qualified for Conscientious Objector status, demonstrating his commitment to his beliefs.
Roman specialized in working with children with special needs. He was beloved by the children he worked with and found joy in supporting kids of all abilities. He played a crucial role in the formation of El Valor in Pilsen, where he was the first employee, and he also worked at Erie Neighborhood House and Esperanza. After earning his Master's degree in Social Work, Roman became a school social worker, where he continued to make a positive impact on the lives of many.
As the youngest of 14 siblings and a half-sibling to 5, Roman is survived by his wife, Lourdes; his sons, Roman and Nicholas (Stephanie); and his grandchild, Luna. An avid photographer and passionate gardener, Roman cherished capturing moments and nurturing life in all its forms.
Roman's legacy of compassion, dedication, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those he touched. He will be deeply missed by family, friends, and the community he served so selflessly.
Visitation Sunday May 18, 2025 from 3pm to 7pm at Anderson Memorial Home, 21131 W. Renwick Rd., Plainfield, Il 60544. Funeral Monday May 19, 2025, 9:30am from the funeral home chapel to Christ the Servant Catholic Church in Woodridge. Interment to follow Queen of Heaven Cemetery in Hillside.