Fructoso “Frank“ Rodriguez

This Father's Day, I am remembering one of the funniest, kindest, and most generous people: my dad. Fructoso "Frank" Rodriguez Jr. passed away on May 9, 2025. He was 77 years old. He now joins his daughter and my sister, Isabel.

My dad's story was the model American story—one rooted in hard work, loyalty to family, and commitment to faith. Born in Michigan and raised in South Texas, he settled in the heart of Central Wisconsin with his wife and built a family, raising three children.

Frank loved, and was loved by, so many people throughout Wisconsin, Texas, and Northern Mexico. He loved people because he understood them—whether it was a professor, a waiter, or a person on the street. Frank could talk to anyone about anything. A person who can do this is one who can both see people and hear them—no matter who they are or where they come from.

Throughout his life, Frank was a true romantic, always surprising Mom with bouquets of flowers. There's a story that, as a young man, Dad hitchhiked from his hometown of Crystal City, Texas, to Piedras Negras, Mexico—a distance of over 50 miles. Why? He went to find the woman he would marry. I like to think that every mile he traveled represents one of the 50 years he was married to Mom.

My dad had an impeccable work ethic and dedicated over 40 years to the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point. He was always on time, never missed a day, and always had his shirts pressed. I have fond memories of watching him iron his shirts while watching old Westerns. These lessons were passed on to me because, like my dad, I am always on time for work, try to never miss a day, and—just like him—my shirts are always pressed.

My dad loved being active, whether it was going on a bike ride, dancing a cumbia, or visiting with his countless friends. I know he's watching over us, laughing and being the life of every party.

Frank is survived by his wife, Tina; children, Susan and Tony; son-in-law, Ben and wife, Nicole; and grandchildren, Jaylon, Ashley, and Jaxon. He also leaves behind a large extended family across two countries, including his sister-in-law, Ludivina; nephew, Gabe; and nieces, Maria and Angelica, whom he loved to make laugh. He is also survived by his siblings, Rudy, Robert, and Elizabeth.

Dad, we love you, and we miss you so much. It has been said that the greatest thing one can do in life is to love and be loved. The rest is just background music. Dad, please know that you are loved.

—Tony Rodriguez

Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to serve the Rodriguez Family.