Cleto M. Rodriguez Jr., lovingly known as “Grandpa Bird,” passed away peacefully on June 16, 2026, at the age of 97, surrounded by the warmth and love of his family. Born on March 18, 1929, in Martinez, Texas, Cleto lived a long and meaningful life built on hard work, resilience, and devotion to his family. He was a man who believed in earning an honest living and providing for those he loved. He is now reunited in eternal peace with his parents, Cleto Rodriguez Sr. and Elisa M. Rodriguez; his beloved wife, Amelia Davis Rodriguez; his daughter, Elisa R. Martinez (“China”); his sister, Maria Rodriguez (“Nena”); his brother, Richard Rodriguez; and his sister, Rebecca Ayala. He leaves behind a lasting legacy through his five children: Yolanda Barrientes (Coco) †, Blanca E. Vaquera (Sam), Irma Davis, Cleto D. Rodriguez III (Rita), and Robert R. Rodriguez; 18 grandchildren; 34 great-grandchildren; and 6 great-great-grandchildren.He is also survived by his beloved brother, Retired SGM Gilbert V. Rodriguez (Guadalupe), along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever hold him close in their hearts.Cleto was the definition of dedication and hard work. He dedicated nearly 37 years of service to the City of San Antonio, where he never once called in during his entire career. Before that, he worked as a wood cutter and migrant worker, traveling north to earn a living and provide for his family.Even after retirement, Cleto’s hardworking spirit never faded. He remained active and full of purpose, always finding ways to stay busy and continue doing what he loved most. You could never keep him inside for long — he was always moving, working, and caring for those around him.Cleto will be remembered for his strength, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to his family. He was a devoted father, grandfather, brother, and friend whose life was a true example of perseverance, sacrifice, and love through action.Though our hearts are heavy, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace and reunited with those who went before him.His memory will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. †

Visitation will occur on Tuesday, June 30, 2026 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited 6 p.m. On Wednesday, July 1, 2026 a funeral procession will depart the funeral home at 10 a.m. for a 10:30 a.m. funeral mass at St Jude Catholic Church with interment to follow at San Fernando Catholic Cemetery II.