Richard Rodriguez

Apr 23, 1947 -

May 29, 2025

Richard Gabino Rodriguez, "Rich," known for his wry sense of humor and his easy-going manner, passed away peacefully in the arms of Kay, his beloved wife of 34 years, on May 29, 2025, at Providence Hospital in Anchorage, Alaska. Rich was born in Charleroi, Pa., a part of U.S. steel country, to Nora Rodriguez (Moore) and Angel Rodriguez of Donora, Pa., on April 23, 1947. One of many things that Rich shared with the world during his 78 years was his athletic prowess. In high school, he broke records for the 440 dash as well as in broad jumping, with local news articles highlighting his remarkable abilities. Before participating in school sports, he worked as a pin boy for local bowling leagues. Being quick on his feet was an absolute must and this may have piqued his interest in sport competitions. His trumpet playing during his Donora High School years was also something of which he was proud. Go Dragons!

Rich enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1967 and served for a decade. During the time that he was stationed in the highly sensitive DMZ between North and South Korea, he was presented with the opportunity to work with a master in the Korean combat sport of Tae Kwon Do and, through skill and dedication, earned a black belt in the martial art. When he returned to the U.S., Rich became a student at Alaska Methodist University where he earned his degree in business and economic administration. It was during this enlistment period that Rich was stationed at two missile bases in Anchorage that were a part of the U.S. Cold War defense system designed to intercept enemy aircraft. He was honorably discharged, exiting the U.S. Army with several medals, one for National Defense during active duty.

Well-known and liked by his peers throughout his working years, Rich was employed in the banking industry at First National Bank of Anchorage. Initially in the management trainee program, he subsequently focused his talents in the mortgage loan department. Later, Rich worked for the FDIC as a financial analyst. This led to his later being employed by the Veterans Administration as Chief of Construction and Valuation in Alaska, where he very much appreciated being able to help veterans statewide. Rich retired from this position in 2014.

When Rich had time off from his busy schedule, he enjoyed spending time with his wife and friends in Hawaii as a break from the frozen north, appreciating the ecological and cultural diversity of both places.

Rich is survived by his loving wife, Kay Rodriguez (Deason) of Anchorage; son, Todd Dran (wife Gretchen) of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; three sisters, Christine Rodriguez of Charleroi, Parthena Rodriguez (husband Clive Parker) of Winston-Salem, N.C., and Leonidas Johnson (Rodriguez) of Mill Run, Pa.; sister-in-law, Anne May (husband James May); two granddaughters; five nieces; three nephews; and his sweet, beloved puppy, Zoey.

Rich never lost his sense of humor during the many years he was challenged with Parkinsons. He also loved dogs! In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Northwest Parkinson's Foundation at NWPF.org, or to Friends of Pets at friendsofpets.org.