Obituary of Epifanio D. Rodriguez

Our beloved Epifanio “Rod” D. Rodriguez, age 91, resident of Pflugerville, Texas, was called to our Heavenly Father on Saturday, March 3, 2018.  Rod was born on April 7, 1926 in Red Rock, Texas.  He joined the Army at the age of 18 and proudly served during World War II.  He owned his own business, E.D. Rodriguez & Sons.  He was a Master Mason by trade for more than 50 years.  Rod was proud of his meticulous work which can still be seen until this day all across Austin, Pflugerville, and Round Rock, Texas.

He was a hardworking, strong, patriotic man that showed love in his own way.  He had many names, Dad, Rod, E.D., and Nano.  He loved his family and was deeply loved in return.  He loved to make people laugh, his humor never ceased to amaze us even in his darkest time of health.  Gathering with family and friends at holidays and hosting social gatherings at his home with “live” music were his favorite times.  He loved to eat and his favorite place was “Joe’s Bakery.”

He is preceded in death by his parents, Ramon and Micaela Rodriguez, and his son, Jesse Gonzales Rodriguez.

Rod is survived by his loving wife Jesusita “Susie” Rodriguez of 31 years; his children Carmen Rodriguez Gonzales (Gary), Ramon Rodriguez, Bennie Rodriguez, Micaela Salazar (Enrique), Lisa R. Matel, Diana R. Figueroa; his step-children Norma Ledesma, Susie Ramirez (Javier), Debbie Ramirez, Duve Ayala, Jr. (Cristine);  and numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, great great grandchildren and other extended loving family and friends.

Serving as pallbearers: SFC Javier Ramirez (Retired), Ernest Ledesma III, Juan Javier Ramirez, David Duve Ramirez Jr., Enrique Salazar III, and Emilio Rey Salazar

The family is eternally grateful to his wife, “Susie” for her unwavering love, sacrifices, and compassionate relentless care, especially during his last two years of life.  She ultimately became his voice when he could no longer speak.   

A special thanks to Meals on Wheels Central Texas for their prompt handicap accessibility modifications to their home; Hospice Compassus Round Rock, TX staff for their support and care; and the Pflugerville Fire Department firefighters who provided outstanding professional and sincere care and support during the most challenging time of his life.

Visitation will be held from 5:00-9:00 p.m. with Recitation of the Holy Rosary to begin at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 at Mission Funeral Home-South Side, 6204 South First Street, Austin, Texas 78745. Mass of Christian Burial will begin at 10:00 am, on Thursday, March 8, 2018 at Santa Cruz Catholic Church 1100 Main Street Buda, Texas 78610. Interment will follow at Assumption Cemetery.

Please visit www.missionmemorials.com to order flowers and offer condolences to the family.