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Nelson Rodriguez Obituary
NELSON A. RODRIGUEZ
It was a beautiful afternoon in Luray, VA on October 31 when Nelson Rodriguez, 48, died from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.
Born in San Salvador, El Salvador, Nelson immigrated to the United States in 1975. In 1978, he married Rose Provan (Santa Fe, NM) and lived in Los Angeles, CA until his move to the East Coast in 1983.
Except for a two-year period of "semi- retirement" beginning in 1987, when he successfully owned and operated "Nelson's Plumbing", Nelson worked for Nation's Capital Archives and Storage Systems until 1999. Nelson again "retired" and attended school to become a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer and tried his hand at auto mechanics...partnering with a dear friend to build, burn and rebuild a 1965 Cobra. At the time of his death, Nelson was working with the Social Security Administration Office of Hearings and Appeals.
Nelson Rodriquez loved life and lived it to the fullest. He excelled at all things to which he put his mind, finding joy in everything he did whether he was golfing, skydiving, river rafting, bowling a perfect 300, or simply mowing 30 acres of West Texas farmland, polishing the chrome on cars and motorcycles, rough housing with the dog, or cutting carrots and peppers for the evening meal.
Nelson shared his day-to-day enthusiasm for life with his soul mate and best friend of 14 years, Beth Carman (Alexandria, VA). It was at CLUB Richmond 2004 - the Harley Davidson Owners Group National Rally held in Richmond, VA - that Nelson found the perfect engagement ring and officially announced their engagement with plans for a Fall 2005 wedding.
"Genuine" is the word that best describes Nelson. Being a very spiritual person, he lived according to Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements: 1) be impeccable with your word; 2) don't take anything personal; 3) don't make assumptions; and 4) always do your best. He was an active participant at the Celebration Center of Religious Science.
Nelson is survived by his parents, Alfredo and Berta Rodriguez; three brothers and two sisters, all from Altadena, CA.
Arrangements to honor Nelson's life and spiritual transition began with a memorial service on November 3 at the Celebration Center of Religious Science in Falls Church, VA. Funeral services and interment were held November 6 at Mountain View Cemetery and Mortuary in Altadena, CA. Expressions of sympathy may be sent via e-mail to
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Memories and Condolences
for Nelson Rodriguez
Sponsored by his soulmate.
Jenn Fay
January 25, 2005
Dear Beth,
Please know with me that there is one Infinite Source of Loving Comfort, one Mind of Guiding Wisdom, and one Spirit of Peace. This Energy of Love flows with tenderness & ease everywhere. This Love is always available & ever Present. And just as I am one with this amazing Source, I know Beth & Nelson are also one. They are empowered with the same Creative Energy that is the Divine Light in this world. And so I know that Nelson soars in that Light of Oneness. I know his entire being is embraced in Peace & Love. I know his spirit lives on forever as does the love he felt & shared. And I know Beth is also surrounded by the blessings of Spirit as she moves through this time of loss. I know she is supported on the spiritual plane & by all those friends & family members who care about her, for loss always brings people together in ways that are often unexpected. I know Beth finds comfort in memories & in her intuitive knowing of the Truth about Life. I am so grateful for her request for prayers. I am grateful that Nelson made his transition doing what he enjoyed. I am thankful Beth has a spiritual community that supports her & for the Divine Love & Comfort that surround her now & always. And so I release these words into the Law, knowing they never return void. I let go & let God, knowing that Spirit moves with Love through all situations. And so it is!
holding you in the Light,
Julie Fanning
January 25, 2005
Beth,
Though we have only met informally a couple of times, I feel compelled to extend our sympathies. Though I'm sure nothing I say can really help, please know that you (and Nelson, of course) are in a lot of people's thoughts and prayers.
In time, hopefully the pain won't be as sharp.
Sincerely,
Julie & John Fanning
Fairfax H.O.G. members
Steve Shields
January 25, 2005
We are all so upset to hear of the tragic accident. If we can do anything please let us know.
With deepest sympathy,
Larry McIlhenny
January 25, 2005
I am in shock and don't know what to say but I just wanted you to know that my thoughts and prayers are with you.
How you can show support
Anna Gutierrez
January 25, 2005
From Anna Gutierrez, and all your friends in Big Spring, Texas, we are truly very sorry for your loss. Please, please call me if there's anything at all that I can do.
Mary Mock
January 25, 2005
Beth,
I know that there are no words that adequately express the feelings and condolences that one wants to offer when a friend loses a loved one to the mysteries of death. No matter how hard one tries or one's level of eloquence, words will always fall short. Although the words "this totally sucks" does come close. But I've learned that this inadequacy is ok. Because it is within the space of the attempt to find such words that the true pure energy of love is being expressed. It is in that sacred space that one can truly touch the heart of the one that suffers the loss and offer the hope of peace for the loved one that has died.
Although I will not be able to attend the memorial on Wednesday in the flesh, I will be there in spirit holding and surrounding you and Nelson in that sacred space in which love eternally resides and where one finds the peace that surpasses all understanding.
Sincerely your friend,
Doug Stanfield
January 25, 2005
I too was on a ride that day, that beautiful awful day. Riding is the
most fun thing I can do in this life and I know Nelson thought so too. He was doing something he loved. I never knew him but we shared a love of the ride and when I ride in the future I will think of him enjoying his motorcycle.
bill loucks
January 25, 2005
please allow me to express my sincere condolences for the loss of a fellow rider. my thoughts will be with you beth in your time of
sorrow.
Deloris Lucas
January 25, 2005
Dear Beth and family,
I am so sorry to hear about your sad news. We never know why these things happen, but always know that there is some Divine Plan that we cannot see and know. With faith and trust we can be assured that Nelson's life does go on, although in a different form. We miss our loved ones who go on before us a daily basis, but will never be far from them because we are so interconnected and always connected.
I know that God is surrounding you and your family with comfort, love
and support. I know that the love and support you feel will help ease your pain and loss. I know that you are supported, loved and comforted by many friends and loved ones. I know that God is blessing Nelson on his new journey and watching over you on yours.
Love and hugs, Deloris Lucas (CCRS Practitioner)
David Kranz
January 25, 2005
Beth,
As a fellow Fairfax HOG member, I am very saddened to hear about
Nelson. I got a phone call from a friend of mine who was on the ride. She gave me the basic details and we spent time talking about "why and how".
I know that there is not much I can to ease your sorrow and pain, but my thoughts are with you.
David and Jennifer Meredith
January 25, 2005
Dear Beth,
My most sincere sympathies and condolences to you and your family. I met Nelson just a couple of weeks ago while waiting to get my bike serviced. We kept each other company throughout the wait, drank coffee, had lunch and got to know each other before we left Patriot together for our ride home. He was truly a great gentleman. I spoke with him Sunday just before the two of you got into your group. My wife, Jennifer, and I will keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. Although I only knew him briefly, I consider him a friend.
Sincerely,
David and Jennifer Meredith
Randy McMillan
January 25, 2005
Beth,
My deepest regrets, if I can do anything to help you, please don¹t
hesitate to ask.
Sofia Pastoriza
January 25, 2005
Beth,
I was very saddened to learn about Nelson's passing. I pray he was comforted by you being next to him. Even when it's hard and there is
no real comfort at the moment, I do pray that you receive peace from the company of family and friends, from knowing you were there, from
the certainty that he passed doing something you both enjoyed together.
My prayers are with you and his family and friends.
Sincerely,
John Smith
January 25, 2005
I am so sorry to hear of your loss yesterday. You don't know me, but I was in the first group of riders that left on the Foliage Ride, so an e-mail from HOG was the first I'd heard of the tragedy. My memory of that beautiful day will now be forever tinged with sadness.
I hope that at some point in the not too distant future you will be able to take some small measure of comfort when you remember the beautiful day on which you suffered such a great loss. Please accept my sincerest condolences.
Andy Stallworth
January 25, 2005
Beth,
I am so deeply saddened by the news of your tragic loss. Please know that my heart goes out to you at this extremely difficult time in your life. I wish I could be with you and other friends in person, but I am interrupting my preparation for my journey home to Alabama to lay my mother to rest, to express my heartfelt sympathy for you. May God be with you as I am certain that Nelson is with Him now.
May you draw strength from those who love and care for you.
Andy Stallworth
H.O.G. Fairfax Chapter
Preacher
January 25, 2005
I sincerely wish to express my condolences at this time of great loss. If I may be of any assistance, in any manner please do not hesitate to contact me.
"Preacher"
--
Rev. R. Summerfield, Jr.
BWB Ministries (aka Bikers with Bibles)
Sal Palatucci
January 25, 2005
Dear Beth:
I want to add my regrets to the many others who will having read about Nelson.
My prayers are with you and his family.
Sincerely,
Sal Palatucci
FFX Hog member
Dana Binford
January 25, 2005
Dear Beth,
I'm sure I haven't met you as I'm rather new to the chapter but as a
HOG member, we are part of a family of riders and friends.
I am so very sorry for your loss of your loved one, Nelson, and my
prayers are with you. If there's any consolation at all for you, it could be that in his last moments on this Earth, he was doing something he loved, on a beautiful day, and sharing it with you.
God Bless you and your family,
Richard Galik
January 25, 2005
I'm sorry for your loss.
Mary Lawson
January 25, 2005
Words cannot express the sadness we feel for your loss. I hope you
know we all share your sorrow and will miss Nelson very much. I haven't known you for long, but it was always a pleasure to spend time and talk with you both and with the little pup. I'm glad you still have the dog you shared with Nelson and some wonderful memories to comfort you. If there is anything at all I can do, or any of the other Chapter Officers or members, please don't hesitate to ask. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
With Love, Mary and Garry Lawson
Celebrating with Nelson and cousin Teddy
Charlie Ratliff
December 16, 2004
I remember Nelson exactly the way that I see him here. For the fourteen years that I knew him, he was always fun, energetic, and full of life. When we golfed, it didn't matter how good or bad we played. When bowling, Nelson managed to have a good time even when our team was getting clobbered. When Nelson took me for my first skydive, he was just as thrilled as I was.
Those who met Nelson saw that he was strong and fun to be around. Those who knew him saw his more sensitive and analytical side. My wife and I remember many things about Nelson. Most of all, we remember his smile.
Dave Hatfield
December 12, 2004
Nelson was like a brother to me. We shared a lot of adventures and good times over the 21 years I knew him. He disliked pretense, snobbery, laziness, and narrow mindedness. He made people smile and laugh. I know he enjoyed and cherished being a part of the Algonkian outings.
I miss him terribly, and think about him everyday, but I know I am a richer and better person today as a result of our friendship. His spirit lives on within me.
Matt Welsh
December 6, 2004
I got to know Nelson during our seasonal trips to Algongain Park in Sterling,VA and Seven Springs Resort in PA. Nelson told me of his modest background and the problems that one can face living in a county with a questionable administation. He informed me that the United States has a wonderful system of government that ensures freedom for its residents that people in "third world" countries can only dream about. He was proud to be a U.S. citizen. Although often quite playful and full of energy, Nelson had great insight and depth.
I miss him.
Chris Torres
December 4, 2004
Nelson was one of the kindest and most considerate people I've ever met and will be missed dearly.
December 4, 2004
El Vato
December 4, 2004
Ski Roundtop 2003
December 4, 2004
Naturalized Citizen - 1985
December 4, 2004
Just give me a pole...
December 4, 2004
Driving my car - pre burn
December 4, 2004
Perfect Game 2004
December 4, 2004
Golf Anyone?
December 4, 2004
June 1983
December 4, 2004
Fairfax July 4th 2004 Parade
December 4, 2004
My First Bike
December 4, 2004
Nelson and Beth, Rattle the Runway 9-11-2004
December 4, 2004
Bob Arnold
December 1, 2004
Nelson, you are just exactly the kind of fun loving, spirited competitor I always want to bowl either with or against. You will be deeply missed. Hang in there Beth.
Julie Fanning
November 30, 2004
My husband John and I first met Nelson and Beth prior to departing on our Mexican dinner/carshow ride in July—a Fairfax HOG motorcycle activity. We were intrigued by the gorgeous car they were driving that evening (a Dodge Viper, I believe) as well as the little carrier Nelson wore which held the very adorable Tiger. I enjoyed talking with them, although it was brief. The best memory I have is later that evening when we all went to get custard, after dinner. Nelson was sharing his cone with Tiger while Beth looked on, appreciating the sight. I don't why, but that image is burned into my mind—even though we attended other rides with them, the tenderness he had in his face that night is what I remember.
My hope is that Beth will always feel as though Nelson is with her spiritually, and she will no doubt treasure her time with Tiger during this very tough time. She also has the love of many friends and family members—something that I'm sure makes Nelson very happy.
As someone else stated in this guestbook, heaven has a new angel...and I'm sure he's wearing leather.
Paula Rebar
November 30, 2004
I only knew Nelson through Beth. However, after hearing about Nelson from his many friends at the memorial service, I truly understood why Beth loved him so much. They painted such a vivid picture of Nelson--his energy, enthusiasm, love of life and all that it encompasses--that I truly regret not knowing him. He sure had a beautiful smile and I'm convinced his spirit will live on through those who knew him. I pray that Beth is comforted by the good times they shared and the happy memories. I'm glad she has Tiger. Thoughts and prayers, Paula
Judy Lowe
November 29, 2004
I did not know Nelson well. I think I just met him a couple of times. His winning smile in the picture in The Washington Post made me wish that I had known him better. I was well aware of the warm love that he and Beth had developed and when he got the engagement ring. I am so very, very sad that this has happened to both of them. He no longer is suffering but Beth will be for the rest of her life. Time will just make it easier.
Larry Larson
November 29, 2004
Nelson and Beth joined our Fairfax H.O.G. chapter and immediately his positive approach to all situations was obvious. He will be missed, but his example will survive to all who met him. I recall he and Beth taking part in a rainy Library Show & Tell in Franconia. He made many new young friends that day and easily overcame the rain. Our thoughts are with Beth and Nelson's family.
Santos Mendoza
November 29, 2004
I met Nelson and Beth at CCRS. Unfortunately, the only thing I remember was shaking his hand in welcome to the center and noticing his big friendly smile.
All the best to you, Beth. Make Nelson smile, be happy for the rest of your life.
Santos
Amy Carman
November 29, 2004
Nelson wasn't officially part of the family yet, but we all love him as if he was. He is sorely missed.
Jeff West
November 29, 2004
Although my wife, Pam, and I met Nelson and Beth only last spring, they found a lasting place in our hearts. With Tiger, they became regulars at both Fairfax H.O.G. and Patriot H-D events. We look forward to a long friendship with Beth and will miss Nelson though his enthusiastic smile is as bold and fresh in my mind's eye today as the first time we met. I don't think the fall colors will be quite so brilliant in years to come.
Debra Rinderknecht
November 29, 2004
The first time I met Nelson was at the movies with Beth where I didn't get to talk to him hardly at all. I'm fortunate that as time went on I got to know him better. Nelson had a wonderful sense of dry humor that I will miss. He was willing to help where needed and could always be counted on to fulfill his word. Nelson's loss has left a void that will be slow in healing. My thoughts and prayers are with Beth and his family.
Allison Pike
November 29, 2004
I bowled with Nelson and Beth and loved seeing them together - they loved each other so much. Nelson was a very good person - when I fell and broke my arm, he did not hesitate to offer me a ride home. Beth drove Nelson's car and Nelson drove mine. This is only one of the many thoughtful things he did. My grandson, Justin, said he will remember all the helpful tips Nelson gave him about bowling. Nelson touched a lot of people. He brought laughter to all of us. We will miss him.
What Is Wrong With It Now?
November 29, 2004
Skunk Rescuer - 2002
November 29, 2004
Thumbs Up After a Skydive - 2000
November 29, 2004
Nelson and Roxann - 2000
November 29, 2004
Nelson and Beau - 2003
November 29, 2004
Tiger's First Morning at Home - April 2004
November 29, 2004
luke bartek
November 29, 2004
NELSON WAS ALWAYS THERE WHETHER TO TALK ABOUT CURRENT EVENTS OR MAKE ME LAUGH. HE WAS A GOOD MAN AND WILL BE MISSED
David Leatherman
November 29, 2004
Sorry to here of your and our loss of Nelson. Nelson was a wonderful person to know. My daughters will certainly miss seeing Nelson at the lanes. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and Nelson's family.
Joe, Barbara, and Hillary Herendeen
November 29, 2004
We were introduced to Nelson around 1984 by Dave Hatfield.
I (Joe) met him when Dave brought him to our Sunday morning touch football game. He told us Nelson had never played football, but he could run real fast, and we ended up on the same team. On the first play, I told Nelson to line up at end, and to start running as fast as he could when the ball was hiked. He did, I threw the ball in his direction as hard as I could, and he was jumping up and down in the end zone with the football before anyone else knew what happened.
Barbara (my wife) and Hillary (my daughter) probably came into contact with Nelson about half-a-dozen times between them, but both remember him very positively. I remember one party at Nelson's house when Hillary was about 10 years old, and Nelson's young nephew was staying with him for some reason. He probably spent as much time interacting with the two kids as he did with the adults.
I can honestly say I never remember either a sad or a dull moment when Nelson was around. Whether we were playing football, poker, or golf, or just sitting around shooting the breeze, he brought a smile to my face whenever we were together, and he will continue to do so whenever I think about him.
Bill Smith
November 29, 2004
Our prayers are with the family and friends who lost a dear person.
Sherri Musacchia
November 29, 2004
One more angel.
julie hinz
November 29, 2004
It was a pleasure to have Beth and Nelson along for my 'Chicken Ride' to Graves Mountain Lodge in Syria, VA in October, 2004. My thoughts and prayers are with Beth and the rest of his circle of family and friends. Jewels
Beth Carman
November 29, 2004
On Halloween, Nelson and I were out communing with nature the way we enjoyed most – on the backs of our motorcycles. We were enjoying the ride through Skyline, taking in the wonders of the fall colors.
Later that night, I started reaching out to family and friends, letting you know about the tragic accident. By Monday evening, all of my emails and voice mails were full as the love, care and concern came pouring in.
Being in such a state of shock, I could only hope to live moment to moment. However, I knew that I was in good hands as people stepped forward to take care of things for me: holding me at the hospital, driving me home from Luray, finding out who those strange people were in my house, getting my motorcycle towed home and Nelson’s towed to Patriot, planning Nelson’s service with little input from me (BTW, the service was exactly what Nelson wanted), bringing me food, dropping in, calling me, or just hugging me. I am overwhelmed by the love and support that everyone has shown me and will show me as I move through the grieving process. I can’t thank you enough for all of your prayers – that is what is keeping me going.
I am in the “what if” stage of grieving – what if I was riding in front of Nelson, like I normally did - he may have been traveling at a slower speed, as I was falling behind in the group. The accident may not have happened. As it was, I was behind him and saw the entire accident. Had I been in my “normal” spot in the group, I would have been around the next curve and would not have been there when he took his last breath and he would have died alone (one of his greatest fears). What if Tiger had not broken his leg (or had healed faster), Tiger would have been on the bike with Nelson and I would have lost both of them at the same time. Tiger is my lifeline right now – he is the only reason I am getting out of bed in the mornings. Fate has a funny way of working out.
I keep seeing Nelson’s beautiful smile and I am surrounded by his love and energy. He is such a genuine person and was so at peace with his life. Nelson wants me to continue to live life to the fullest. I know that I can reach out at any time and you will be there to help me keep my light shining.
Each of you holds a special place in my heart. Beth
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