Roberto “Bob” Rodriguez Jr., 87, of Whitewater passed away on Saturday, December 19, 2020 at the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison.
Bob was born on October 2, 1933 in Laredo, Texas to Roberto Sr. and Sofia Rodriguez. His parents divorced when Bob was young and his mother raised him and his four siblings. At a young age, Bob would find odd jobs to help his mom in any way he could. He was an excellent student but felt that he needed to stop his education to go into the workforce. Later on, Bob enlisted in the United States Air Force at the age of 17. While stationed in Hawaii, Bob earned his GED. He served two four-year hitches and was honorably discharged twice. He also served during the Korean Conflict in Japan. He truly enjoyed his time in Hawaii.
While visiting his sister, Bob met the love of his life, Maria. They were married for 30 years. They enjoyed traveling together and took many spontaneous trips. He worked at Generac over the years, until Maria suggested he retire. Maria passed in 2015.
Bob enjoyed reading, especially mysteries, watching western movies and anything cowboy related, watching Wisconsin sports, completing crossword puzzles, watching TV game shows, buying and trading books, and enjoyed spending time with family, especially his sister-in-law in Arizona.
He was a member of the Whitewater VFW and previously served as the Commander.
Bob is survived by his children, John (Rosemary) Villarreal, Calixtro (Sherri) Villarreal, Isabelle Villarreal, Phillip Rodriguez; grandchildren, Alex, Jon, Tony, Stevie, Efram; two great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Roberto and Sofia Rodriguez Sr.; wife, Maria; and siblings.
At this time, there are no services.
Donations in Bob’s name can be made at the Whitewater VFW and the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital in Madison.
The family would like to give special thanks to the staff at the Veterans Hospital in Madison and Mercy Hospital in Janesville, for their exceptional care for Bob. Another special thanks to Giselle Robbins, Bob’s friend and caregiver with Bright Star.
Online condolences can be made at www.nitardyfuneralhome.com
