John Joseph Rodriguez, longtime resident of Hayward, CA, passed on Monday, September 12, 2016.  John was born in Fresno, CA, to Joe and Celia Rodriguez on February 8, 1949.  John is survived by his loving wife Stephanie; they were married on September 26, 1972.  This year was their 44th wedding anniversary.  His three children and families survive him: John and Cathleen Rodriguez, Donald and Lea Morrow, Casey Rodriguez.  John was adored by his six grandchildren: Isabella, John Gerald, Donald, Kylie, Elise and Sophia.  He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law, David and Jenny Rodriguez.  John loved his large family and had hundreds of Aunts, Uncles, Nieces, Nephews and Cousins who were dear to him.

John was an athlete as a youth, excelling at football, baseball and wrestling and participating in varsity sports at McLane High School in Fresno.  He was an avid golfer throughout his life and loved fishing in Alaska with his Army National Guard buddies.  John was a huge 49er fan and longtime season ticket holder, he also took many memorable Super Bowl trips around the country.

John was very well respected professionally, working with the Regional Center of the East Bay for 35 years. He was known to be a passionate advocate for the underrepresented and minority developmentally disabled clients with whom he worked.  John was also a veteran of the AVCRAD unit of the California Army National Guard in Fresno. 

A viewing will be held at 5PM on Thursday, September 15, with Vigil following at 7PM.  Funeral will be held on Friday, September 16 at 10AM.  Both services will be held at Our Lady of the Rosary Church, located at 703 C St. Union City CA. Burial with military honors will be private.

Donations to Helping Hand Fund, c/o Regional Center of the East Bay, 500 Davis St., San Leandro, CA 94577.