MIchael "Super Mex" Rodriguez Obituary (1950

Michael "Super Mex" Rodriguez died on May 13th, 2021. Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut where he resided until moving to the Town of Stratford then retiring to Lady's Island, South Carolina. He was a decorated Marine Vietnam Veteran and a retired police officer with the city of Bridgeport. Serving in both Patrol and the Tactical Unit, where he was awarded the departments highest honor - the Silver Star of Bravery. Continuing in civil service, he was a Masonry trade instructor and later head of the department at Bullard Havens Regional Vocational Technical High School. Additionally, serving as head football coach for 4 seasons. Caring only about the students often saying, "I know, during football season, I send home 45 players so tired they won't get in trouble on the streets and that's what it's all about!" All the while being able to achieve an Associate Degree from Central Connecticut State University. His passion and pride as a Marine Corps veteran led to him becoming a founding member of the Marine Corps League Bridgeport Detachment. Signing the original charter as the Sergeant at Arms, and later being sworn in as Commandant. Keeping active as a veteran, he was a member to the following groups: FBI Marine Corps Association, American Legion, AMVETS, The Police Benevolent Association, a life member of VFW & Disabled American Veterans. A giving man, he volunteered his time to St. Vincent's Hospital in Connecticut and The Marine Corps Museum on Parris Island where he was a greeter and a LEGACY speaker for the young marines entering the Corps. A devote catholic, he was a parishioner of St. Ambrose Church in Connecticut and St Peter's Catholic Church in South Carolina. Survived by his father Daniel Jr. (Katherine). Survivors include his beloved wife Karen Redmond Rodriguez, his children: Michael Jr. (Sherri), Tanya (Paul), and Kaitlyn, grandchildren: Michael III, and Julia. Siblings include Christina, Theresa and Catalina. As well as a host of in-laws, nieces and nephews from the families of Rodriguez, Redmond, Anthony and Polinsky. He was preceded in death by his mother Julia Alejos Rodriguez and brother Daniel III. In lieu of flowers please donate to The American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, and the American Veterans Association. First service to be held in South Carolina - Mass will take place on Friday, May 21, 2021 at St. Peter's Catholic Church at 4 o'clock pm. A Connecticut service to be announced once arrangements are made.