Mike Rodriguez

Mike R. Rodriguez earned his wings on January 9, 2026, passing peacefully at home surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on April 13, 1948, in Knox City, Texas, to Vidal “Bill” and Erminia “Minnie” Rodriguez. He lived a life filled with character, laughter, music, and unforgettable moments. There was a strength and fight in him that left you in awe, and giving up was not an option. He carried with him a quiet strength, a warm smile, and a presence that people naturally gravitated toward.

He proudly served his country in the United States Army during the Vietnam era and continued his service in the Army Reserve, earning four awards along the way. His dedication, discipline, and pride in serving were values that stayed with him throughout his life.

After his military service, he dedicated 33 years to Oxy Petroleum, where he eventually retired—leaving behind a legacy of hard work, reliability, and commitment.

He loved to eat, and Mexican food was his favorite—no doubt about it. Chorizo and eggs, chile verde, and enchiladas were always at the top of his list. A daily coffee drinker, he didn’t measure it by the cup but by the pot. Many good memories were made around meals and coffee, especially during countless visits to Pojo’s and Denny’s, which were among his favorite eating spots.

Known as the life of the party, he had a special gift for bringing people together. He loved to dance and was famous for “shutting down” the party—always making sure the night ended with laughter and lasting memories. Whether it was at the Eagles Lodge, the Moose Lodge, Crazy 8s, or anywhere music was playing, he could be found on the dance floor, enjoying every moment—often with a Bud Light in hand, with Jack, or a shot of tequila close by. Odessa was his stomping ground, and he left his mark everywhere he went.

He was an avid pool player, a passion that took him twice to Las Vegas, Nevada, to compete in the BCA Pool League World Championship competitions—an experience he was proud of and loved to talk about. Back in the day, he worked on cars—each one given its own name. He would talk to them, coaxing them back to life, determined to get them running again. His love for cars went far beyond working on them; it also included backstreet quarter-mile racing, where his competitive spirit and love for speed came alive.

He was not a man of many words, but when he spoke, it mattered. If he liked you, he called you “mija”—and if you heard that, you knew you were on good terms. His smile alone could warm your heart, and his sense of humor—often ornery and perfectly timed—kept those around him laughing.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Vidal and Erminia Rodriguez, and his siblings Ray, Ernest, Henry, and Elma.

He is survived by his brothers Matias “Ricky” Rodriquez, Richard Rodriquez and Leonard Rodriquez (wife Martina); his sisters Anna and Margaret (husband Jesse); his children Sandra Corral (husband Arturo), Amie Baeza (husband Joaquín), and Ruben; his stepchildren Deedee Luna (husband James) and Robert Ray Paredes (wife Maria); along with numerous grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will continue to carry his legacy forward.

Though he may have left this world sooner than we would have wanted, the impression he made will last a lifetime, and the memories he created will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.