Robert B Rodriguez, 84, of Holland, Michigan, passed away on August 9, 2026. Born on June 25, 1942, in Dallas Texas, Robert was the son of Simon Rodriguez and Gloria Rodriguez, both of whom preceded him in death. One of six children, he was raised in Dallas alongside his brothers and sisters.
Robert built a life grounded in work, devotion, and family. He held two main jobs through his adult years, first with National Motors in South Haven. After the family moved to the Holland area in 1988, he began working at the Life Savers Factory, where he remained until retiring in 2003, when the factory closed its doors. Through the years, Robert was known for his reliability and the quiet dignity with which he carried responsibility.
Around 1958, Robert met Otilia. The two were married in 1959, and in 1960, they moved to Chicago before relocating to Fennville/South Haven in 1965, eventually settling more permanent roots in the Holland area. Together they welcomed three children into the world. In 2017, Otilia passed—a loss felt deeply by Robert and the entire family.
In 2018, Robert met Leola, and the two were married later that year, continuing a life shaped by companionship, commitment, and enduring faith.
Central to Robert’s life was his faith; he was a devoted and steady Christian and a regular attendee at his church, Church of God of Prophecy. He often played his harmonica at church in the band, something he participated in with Otilia and Rick. Music brought him immense joy, and he cherished sharing it with those he loved.
Robert also found happiness in the simple, meaningful rhythms of everyday life. Going out to eat was a favorite, with preferred spots including Russ’, Wok in Wok out, Pizza Ranch, and Ihop. For Robert, a meal out was never just a meal—it was a way to gather family close and spend true time together. And when Robert invited someone out, it was understood that their money would be no good; his generosity was practical, consistent, and offered with a kind-hearted ease that made others feel cared for. In quieter moments, he enjoyed watching Boxing, Seinfeld, and a good true crime series.
Robert was preceded in death by his father, Simon Rodriguez; his mother, Gloria Rodriguez; his wife, Otilia Rodriguez; his son, Bob Rodriguez; and his brother, Simon Rodriguez.
Robert is survived by his wife, Leola Rodriguez; his son, Richard (Olga) Rodriguez; his daughter, Priscilla (Jerry) Prys; his sisters, Alicia De La Torre and Maria Luisa Caballero; his brothers, Raymond (Amelia) Rodriguez, Aucensio (Josie) Rodriguez; and his grandchildren, Sierra (Seth) Schut, Jager (Micayla) Prys, Hannah (Matthew) Barber, and step grandchildren, Marc Soliz, Armondo Soliz, and Monica Soliz.
Memorial Visitation will be held at Lakeshore Memorial Services, 11939 James Street, Holland, Michigan 49424, on August 24, 2026, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm.
Comments