Rodrigo “Papi” Rodríguez, 88, passed away on August 14, 2026, at Ascension Seton Williamson Hospital in Round Rock, Texas, twelve days before his 89th birthday.
Rodrigo was born on August 26, 1937, in San Antonio, Táchira, Venezuela. One of 10 children, he grew up in San Antonio.
After high school, he enlisted in Venezuela’s Guardia Nacional, where he earned the rank of sergeant and was selected to continue his education at the Escuela Práctica de Agricultura and Universidad Central in Maracay and Caracas. After graduation, he was employed by Venezuela’s Ministry of Agriculture for approximately 10 years.
His career brought him and his family to the United States, where they built their life together in Texas. Upon relocating to Houston, he began what would become a remarkable 38-year career with Dresser Industries, which later became part of Baker Hughes.
Rodrigo shared that life with his wife, Sandra Dyson Rodriguez, his partner of 62 years. Together, they raised two sons, Landon Rodrigo and Michael Clayton, and watched their family grow to include five grandsons.
Rodrigo was preceded in death by his son, Michael Clayton Rodriguez, who passed away in 2019.
He is survived by his wife, Sandra; his son Landon, daughter-in-law Stephanie, and their sons, Kyle, Caleb and Cameron; daughter-in-law Brenda, Clay’s wife, and their sons, Clayton and Kendall; as well as members of his large extended family.
Rodrigo was also predeceased by his parents, Samuel and Teresa; brothers Samuel and Nelson; and sisters Emma and Marlene. He is survived by brothers Ciro, Jorge, Juan, and bonus brother Raúl, and sisters Blanca and Isabel, in addition to many nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Outside of work, Rodrigo loved baseball and enjoyed traveling, playing bocce ball, and spending time with friends. He enjoyed a good party and the opportunity to be surrounded by family and friends.
After 88 years, Rodrigo leaves behind a life that stretched from Venezuela to Texas, a marriage of more than six decades, a long and successful career, and generations of family who will carry his memory forward.
The family has chosen to hold a celebration of life with close family, friends, and loved ones in lieu of a memorial service.