RODRIQUEZ, Ramona

Arizona Daily Sun, Flagstaff, AZ Sunday, June 12, 2005 Ramona S. Rodriguez, longtime resident and Flagstaff native died in Phoenix on Thursday, June 9, 2005. She was 86 years old. Mrs. Rodriguez was born March 21, 1919, in Flagstaff to parents Rosa and Maximino Sanchez. She attended and graduated from St. Anthony's Catholic School. She was known and loved by many people in Flagstaff, and in Phoenix where she spent the last few years. She will always be remembered for her kind heart and giving spirit. She never hesitated to help others and share what she had. Mrs. Rodriguez's loving husband of 43 years, Alejo "Chapano" Rodriguez, preceded her in death. She was very proud of her husband, who served his country during WWII as a gunner on the Black Widow Fighter. They have one son, Raymond Rodriguez, whom she loved very much and was very proud of. She was also a proud grandmother of three grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. After the untimely death of her older sister Elpidia, Mrs. Rodriguez and her two sisters took on the responsibility to help raise Elpidia's children. She was a mother-figure to her seven nieces and nephews. Mrs. Rodriguez worked at the Flagstaff Steam Laundry and American Laundry for several years, and then worked for many years as a desk clerk and housekeeper at the Roadway Inn. She retired from her last job at the Little America Hotel as a housekeeper. She was an active member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. She was a catechism instructor for many years and a member of the Guadalupanas. She was also very active as a member of the Woodmen of the World. One of her favorite activities was to watch her husband play baseball. She also enjoyed reading and loved spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Rodriguez is survived by her son, Raymond (Margaret) Rodriguez of Phoenix; sisters Esperanza Trillo and Concha Sanchez of Flagstaff; three grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, many extended family members and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Lucas Sanchez; and her husband. Services for Mrs. Rodriguez will be at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. The Rosary will be recited Tuesday at 7 p.m. The funeral Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday at 10 a.m. Arrangements are by Norvel Owens Mortuary.