Michael Rodriguez

Michael “Mike” Rodriguez, aged 93, passed away peacefully in Hagerstown on July 17, 2024, after a brief illness.

Born on December 18, 1930 to Manuel Rodriguez and Maria Torres, he spent his earliest years in the mining town of El Cristo, Cuba.

As a young man, Michael and his father immigrated to the U.S. where they earned the money needed for his mother and three younger brothers to join them in New York. It was here that he later met and married Crucita Camacho.

Working multiple jobs and attending night school to support his young family, Mike eventually built a stellar career in the grocery industry before retiring from Krasdale Foods.

But retirement was only the beginning of another chapter for Mike. While living in Puerto Rico he became a tireless civic leader and community activist.

Of all his many accomplishments, Mike was most proud of the family he and Crucita created over the course of their 76-year love story. With his words and his example, he taught three generations of children and grandchildren to work hard, stand up for what is right, and to give back as much as possible. 

Michael leaves behind a legacy of honor, love, and faith. Pre-deceased by his beloved life partner, Crucita, and their eldest daughter, Marie Shogreen, he is survived by his adoring children Bonnie Rodriguez Piña (David), Michael Jr. (Karen), and David Rodriguez (Kim). 

He was a source of inspiration and guidance in the lives of each of his beloved grandchildren: Lauren Rico Steffann (Tom), Laura Caceres (Botir), Michelle Caceres, Vanessa Shogreen, Jessica, Cheryl, Jeremiah (Marian), Nathan, Joshua, and Hannah Rodriguez. 

He was also cherished great-grandfather to Angel Leon, Frankie Santana III, Ursula Santana, Noah Marrero, Jarrett Jones, and Emmett Rodriguez.

Visitors are welcome to pay their respects at Rest Haven Cemetery, 1601 Pennsylvania Avenue, Hagerstown, MD, on Sunday, July 21, 2024 from 4-6pm.

A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church, 17630 Virginia Ave, Hagerstown, MD, on July 22, 2024, at 11am.

Michael will be laid to rest at approximately 12:30pm, beside his beloved Crucita in the spot they chose together in a graveside service at Rest Haven Cemetery, 1601 Pennsylvania Avenue, Hagerstown, MD.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Humane Society of Washington County.