Jaime Rodriguez
Jaime was born in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, on March 26, 1944, to Estevan and Esperanza Villanueva Rodriguez.
He grew up in La Isla del Encanto where he developed a strong work ethic and deep love for his family, and an unshakeable pride in his Puerto Rican roots. As a young teenager, he left Puerto Rico for New York, where he lived for a short while before returning to Puerto Rico to get his brother, and then they transitioned to live and work in Michigan. Together, they settled in Michigan, where Jaime built a meaningful life and became known as the patriarchal figure to many Puerto Rican families new to the Michiana area. Jaime made Three Rivers his home for over 60 years, where he dedicated 40 years of service to International Paper (Weyerhaeuser). He was admired for his hard work and good humor. Even after retiring, Jaime often stopped by to visit his friends and former coworkers, joking about his newfound freedom from "punching the clock!
A devoted husband, Jaime cherished his beloved wife, Balvina (Postosme) Rodriguez, whom he affectionately referred to as his chef, barber, support, love, and "his amor." He frequently expressed his gratitude, saying, "My wife has a heart of gold. She takes good care of me." Together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and mutual respect. Jaime took great pride in his children, always offering them guidance, love, and support. While his methods may have differed, the values he instilled-character, pride, dedication, resilience, and humor-remain deeply rooted in the family. Jaime enjoyed spending time with family and friends, valuing the bonds he shared with his brothers and coworkers. As his family matured and relocated, the friendships he developed with his peers became even more significant, resulting in many meaningful memories filled with warmth, laughter, and shared stories.
Jaime's life was rich with passions and hobbies throughout his life. He loved music, watching boxing matches, and auto racing. He also enjoyed golfing, tending his garden, fixing cars, fishing, exploring new places, and especially taking chances at casinos, which was by far his favorite way to unwind. His energy at cookouts was infectious, and his stories brightened every gathering. Jaime was enthusiastic about everything he did and took pride in his many hobbies and interests.
Those left to mourn him are his loving wife, Balvina, his children, Steven, Jaime Jr. (Tiffany) Rodriguez, and his daughter, stepchildren, Oscar (Alyssa) Schultz, Javier, and Adilia Sequeira. His sister Norma (Frank) Ramos and his sister in law, Carmen Rodriguez. Six grandchildren, Steven Jr., Amanda, Jaden, Jax, Blaze Rodriguez, and Sofia Sequeira, and his beloved great-granddaughter, Kya Navae, whose birth brought him immense joy and pride. Jaime also leaves behind two nephews and five nieces, several great-nieces and great-nephews, and a host of friends who were more like family than buddies. These men were the best of friends, proving that you don't have to share blood to be brothers.
He was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents, his brothers, Jose and Carlos Rodriguez.
Although Jaime's passing was a sudden shock, his life was full and deeply meaningful. He shared laughter, stories, and adventures with everyone fortunate enough to know him. As we honor his memory, we will remember his examples – to work hard, love deeply, and live fully. Jaime would want us all to embrace life as he did, with gratitude, joy, and purpose.
Just close your eyes and you will see
All the memories that you have of me
Just sit and relax, and you will find
I'm really still there inside your mind
Don't cry for me now I'm gone
There is no pain, there is no fear
So dry away that silent tear
Don't think of me in the dark and cold
For here I am, no longer old
I'm in that place that's filled with love
Known to you all, as "UP ABOVE".
Que Dios te bendiga
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Acknowledgments
Your words have comforted us, your support has strengthened us, and your love has held us.
WE EXTEND OUR DEEPEST THANKS TO YOU FOR YOUR KINDNESS DURING OUR GREATEST SADNESS. WE APPRECIATE YOU MORE THAN WORDS CAN EXPRESS, AND YOUR THOUGHTFULNESS WILL ALWAYS BE REMEMBERED.
The Family of Jaime Rodriguez
Per Jaime's wishes, he will be cremated, and his ashes will be given to his wife, Balvina, to keep with her when she goes fishing. His remaining ashes will be gifted to his sons and nieces, Estephani and Sonia, to take them back home to Puerto Rico to place them at his family's gravesite in Aguadilla.
Ray Funeral Home | 305 Rock River Avenue | Three Rivers, MI 49093
Please visit
rayfuneralservices.com to share your memories with the family and gather in Jaime Rodriguez's memory.
Published by Three Rivers Commercial-News, Penny Saver, & Sturgis Sentinel from Oct. 31 to Nov. 1, 2025.