Jose Rosario Rodriguez

José Rosario Rodríguez, age 96, resident of Hobart, IN and formerly of Gary, IN. José transitioned into eternal life on Thursday May 7, 2026. He was born on October 2, 1929, in an idyllic countryside farm in Caguas, Puerto Rico where he was raised by his parents, Alberto and Tomasa and his 15 siblings. He was a devout Christian and a former member of St. Luke Catholic Church and St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. He was also a retired US Steel worker. His work ethic was second to none. José especially enjoyed gatherings with family and friends and was a friend to the young and old. He also had a passion for collecting vintage automobiles, his backyard and bountiful garden, feeding the birds, home-cooked meals and drinking Coors Lite and Burgundy wine. He excitedly watched boxing matches at the edge of his seat, while throwing “air punches” with his fists. José was an active listener to country and blues music, and Puerto Rican música jíbara. He would happily whistle a melodic tune while just tinkering around the house. Jose is survived by his devoted wife, Edith (Honi) Rodríguez; loving daughters, Marjorie Rodríguez, Yolanda Smith, Sandra (Chris) Mixis, Marisol Carmona; grandchildren, Joseph (Rhapsody) Smith, Elijah, Gabrielle Mixis, Eric Rivera, Fernando Zambrana, Ydialis Carmona; great grandchildren, Hunter and Griffin Smith; Fernando, Jr., Jose Zambrana; sisters, María Rosario, Carmen Rosario, numerous loving nieces and nephews; many devoted friends, among them, Monin Román, Mickie Salazar; Freddy Salazar, Henry Flores, “Fernandito” Román - whom he loved as sons; “Canito” Fontanez, “Jimmy” Daily, among so many others to list but you know who you are. Funeral services provided by Burns Funeral Home & Crematory. Viewing and funeral Mass of Christian Burial officiated by Rev. Kevin McCarthy on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at Nativity of Our Savior Catholic Church, 2949 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368. Viewing time will be one hour from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Mass at 11:00 am. Burial immediately after Mass at Calvary Cemetery, 2701 Willowdale Rd., Portage, IN 46368. NOTE: There will be no viewing at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, your donation to the Nativity of Our Savior Church Food Pantry would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

Jose Rosario Rodriguez

October 2, 1929 - May 7, 2026