Martin Rodriguez Rivera

June 11, 1940

Tlalpan, Mexico

~

June 17, 2011

Phoenix, Arizona

 

Martin “Maestro” Rodriguez Rivera, 71, of Phoenix passed away at St. Joseph’s Hospital on June 17, 2011. He was born June 11, 1940 in Tlalpan, Distrito Federal, Mexico to Adalberta and Martin Rivera. A very humble and modest man, Martin was known to have literally given the shirt off of his back to those who were less fortunate. Martin had a passion for nature. He truly did love spending time at the ocean, but did not want to let anyone know his secret apprehension of entering the water. Be it a quiet time in the in his own garden, or simply sitting back in an open field enjoying the flowers, Martin had a very special understanding of what nature had to offer. Christmas was very special to him. Just as much as its religious significance, which he truly understood, but also for its time of giving, which he cherished so much. The family recollects one year that when they came home, the Christmas tree was gone, only to discover that their dad had given it to a family who was less fortunate and had nothing at all. The “family doctor”, Martin was quick to practice his old school remedies on his children, comically whenever any of the kids suffered an ailment, they were quick to hide from their dad out of fear of what crazy remedy he would have in store for them. As much as he wanted to cure his family’s illnesses, Martin was never one to complain about his own ailments. Of all the places that Martin enjoyed the most, and of all the things he enjoyed doing the most, his favorite was simply sitting at home napping. His wife’s cooking was enjoyed by him, to include a good plate of chicken and mole with arroz. Mariachi music was always something that he made time to listen to, or any type of music by a trio. Of all the Mariachi songs, he enjoyed the most, “Mexico lindo y querido”, or the song he shared with his lovely wife, Velia, “Nuestra jurramento”. Martin’s passing was sudden, but as the family has sat around and laughed and cried, they have come to understand that his memories will be with them for all time.

Martin is preceded in death by his parents, Adalberta and Martin; and his brothers, Aristeres and Aristeo. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Velia; his children, Carol Ann, Stephanie Ann, Judy, Rae Ann, Elizabeth Monica, Suzanne Rene, Angelica, Sophia Maria, and Reymundo Manuel Antonio; his sisters, Olga, Lilia, Eva, Lina, Isabela, and Julieta; his brothers Jorge, Adalberto, and Jose; 32 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be Monday, June 20 from 5:00-8:00pm at Avenidas Funeral Chapel in Avondale. A second visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 21 from 5:00-6:30pm at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Phoenix, to be followed by a service at 6:30pm. 

Please feel free to share your condolences with the family and also your thoughts with friends. Perhaps a short funny moment or cherished time you spent with this loved family member who will sorely be missed and forever remembered.

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