Jose Bernardo Rodriguez

Jose Bernardo Rodriguez Obituary

Jose Bernardo Rodriguez, affectionately known as Bernie, passed away unexpectedly at the age of 93 on March 19, 2026, at his cherished home on Cerro Gordo in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Born on November 21, 1932, in Santa Fe, Bernie’s life was a testament to dedication, faith, and the profound love he held for his family and community.

Bernie was preceded in death by his wife, Grace Ann Rodriguez; his parents, Patrocinio and Encarnacion Rodriguez; his parents-in-law, Benigno and Maria Trinidad Archuleta; his infant son, Jose Bernardo Rodriguez; his daughter, Marietta Rodriguez; his son, Anthony Rodriguez; his daughter, Edwina Ferguson; his grandson, John Rodriguez and his 4 siblings Juanita Rodriguez, Perfecto Rodriguez, Rose Cruz and Bertha Mayfield.

Bernie is survived by his sons, John Rodriguez (Luree), Paul Rodriguez (Ann), Reyes Rodriguez (Mary), and Francisco Rodriguez (Roberta); as well as 29 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Bernie’s journey began in the vibrant heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico where he laid the foundation for a life defined by hard work and devotion. After graduating high school and exploring various jobs, he enlisted himself in the United States Army. His term ran from February 12, 1953, to February 11, 1955. He was honorably discharged from Fort Hood, TX and transferred to the Army Reserve in NM to complete his years of service where he earned the rank of Sergeant. He was proud to have been able to serve his country.

In 1975, Bernie proudly earned his accounting degree, which led to a distinguished career as an Accountant Auditor within the Oil and Gas Accounting Division of the State Land Office. His professional life also included notable positions at the historic La Fonda Hotel and the Santa Fe Ski Basin, showcasing his versatile talents and unwavering work ethic.

Beyond his career, Bernie was a man of many gifts and passions. With an outgoing personality that could light up any room, he delighted in dancing, singing, and playing his guitar, filling his home with joy and music. His remarkable versatility earned him the affectionate comparison to a Swiss Army Knife—able to build his home on Cerro Gordo, repair and maintain his own vehicles, and cultivate a beautiful garden. Yet, amidst all his talents, cooking remained his only playful exception.

Bernie’s pride and greatest accomplishment was undoubtedly his family, most especially the love of his life, his wife, Grace A. Rodriguez. He was a devoted father and a prime example of what a parent should be to his children, as well as a loving grandfather to 29 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. His heart swelled with joy as he watched his children grow, play sports, and raise families of their own. Family camping trips, family

gatherings, and shared meals around the table were among Bernie’s most treasured moments, even as he would jokingly remind everyone that “camping is no picnic.”

Bernie is mourned by his surviving family and many treasured friends, while forever remembered with love for his late wife Grace Rodriguez; his sons Bernardo Rodriguez and Anthony Rodriguez; and daughters Edwina Ferguson and Marietta Rodriguez.

Bernie was active in many ministries, and a strong faith was a steadfast pillar throughout his life. Bernie’s deep devotion to his church was evident through his countless roles: altar server, Eucharistic minister, member of the choir, active participant in the Cursillo movement (Cursillista), Hermanos Cruzados, and was a founding member of El Coro De Jesu Cristo.

In reflecting on Bernie’s life, one is reminded of a man whose spirit and hands shaped not only a home but a legacy of love, faith, and strength. His outgoing nature, his ever-ready smile, and his unwavering dedication to those he loved leaves a lasting imprint on all who had the privilege to know him.

Jose Bernardo “Bernie” Rodriguez will be deeply missed but fondly remembered, his life a beautiful song played with passion, devotion, and grace. May his memory continue to inspire and comfort all who gather to honor him.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 6:15 PM followed by a rosary at 7:00 PM at Cristo Rey Catholic Church. A mass of Christian Burial will be held on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 11:00 AM followed by an Internment at 1:30 PM at the Santa Fe National Cemetery. A reception will follow at the Cristo Rey gymnasium.

Pallbearers are, Seth Rodriguez (grandson), Jose Rodriguez (grandson), Anika Rodriguez (granddaughter), Mikaela Crazyhorse-Rodriguez (granddaughter), Marcial “Anthony Chavez” Mendez (great grandson) and Mary Ferguson (granddaughter).

Honorary pallbearers are, James Ferguson (grandson), Melinda Ronquillo (granddaughter), Nicole Rodriguez (granddaughter), Madelyn Rodriguez (granddaughter), Jordyn Rodriguez (granddaughter).