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Obituary for Helen Rodriguez On November 30, 2024, heaven received a special angel known as Helen Rodriguez. Helen lived life to the fullest and loved with all her heart. She was the third child born into the family of John Vincente and Julia L. Avila on January 9, 1938. Along with her siblings Louise Romero (Antonio), John Avila (Delores), Betty Espinoza (David), Rita Maldonado (Ignacio), Fred Avila (Gloria), Alex Avila, and Christina Acosta (Lupe), the Avila Family was complete. Helen loved her sisters and brothers uniquely and cherished the bond only siblings can share. Helen met her soldier Ralph T. Rodriguez while he was home on leave in-between military training in 1956. They joined hands in marriage one year later on November 30, 1957, at St. Alphonsus Church, Fresno, California. Together they continued their love story for 67 years bringing their three children Cathy, Ronnie, and Ralph Jr. into their union. Helen spent 86 years on this earth planting seeds of love, generosity, compassion, and empathy for everyone she met. As a full-time housewife managing the family home she balanced her responsibilities by maintaining a well-organized household while still prioritizing quality time with her family. She was committed to making the time for meaningful activities with her loved ones. Whether it was preparing a hearty meal or planning a family outing, Helen always ensured that her family felt loved and cared for. It was not uncommon for Helen to drive the West side of Fresno delivering summer fruits to her sisters who no longer drove. After getting Ralph off to work and the kids to school she would drive to Malaga to visit her mother and enjoy a morning’s cup of coffee. They would spend hours visiting and it’s these loving memories spent with her own mother that she carried throughout her life. Ralph and Helen shared a love for camping and introduced their children to the beauty of the Yosemite Mountains, the sparkling glimmer of Shaver and Millerton lakes, and the wonder of the Pacific coast. Helen played a pivotal role in establishing and nurturing family traditions that have been cherished for generations. Her love for camping with Ralph and their children laid the foundation for the annual Labor Day weekend retreats, a cherished event that brings entire families together. Through her enthusiasm, she ensured these gatherings became a time for reminiscing, delicious BBQ’s, viewing sunsets by the beach, riding trolley cars, and creating lasting memories. Helen leaves behind her legacy to her husband, Ralph T. Rodriguez, Daughter, Cathy Marroquin, (Carlos), Son, Ronald Rodriguez, and Son, Ralph Rodriguez, Jr. Additionally, six grandchildren, Carlos Marroquin Jr. (Crystal), Ronald Rodriguez Jr. (Chanel), Anthony Rodriguez, Nicholas Rodriguez, Jeni and Jon Marroquin and four great grandchildren, Aubree and Brayden Marroquin, Maverick and Karsyn Marroquin. Her brother and sisters to cherish the memories of sharing “Life” with Helen and the many nieces and nephews, whom she treasured. Helen reaped what she sowed in life and it was evident by the family that surrounded her during her peaceful passing. While Helen may be out of our reach today, we shall continue to celebrate and remember her as a life complete with fulfillment. At Helen’s request private cremation is coordinated by Chapel of the Light, Fresno, California.

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Helen Rodriguez

January 9, 1938 - November 30, 2024