Rodrigo Bernardo Aviles Valdez

Selfless, kind, easygoing, funny, determined, caring, and loving, Rodrigo Bernardo Aviles, known as Rochi to close friends and family, will be deeply missed by everyone in his life. For the 33 years he was with us, Rodrigo Aviles taught everyone in his life the meaning of unconditional love. He had a unique ability to walk into any room and make instant friends, and he was always the brightest light and center of any party. In every circle he was part of, Rodrigo was the one who kept everyone close. He was a natural connector and the “glue” for everyone in his life.

Born and raised in La Paz, Bolivia, Rodrigo attended Saint Andrews School, where he nurtured friendships that would last a lifetime. With the same adventurous spirit that defined him, he left Bolivia to the U.S. for college. He graduated from the University of Utah and was a brilliant and talented metallurgical engineer who worked for many of the largest mining companies in the world over the course of his career.

Rodrigo and Madison were inseparable from the moment they met in college ten years ago. They both remarked many times that they knew the other was ‘the one’ from the very beginning. The unconditional love they have is admired by many, and Rodrigo never let a single day go by where Madison didn’t feel the infinite amount of love he had for her.

Dear friends of Rodrigo and Madison taught them how to play pickleball upon moving back to Utah from Nevada. Since that moment, Rodrigo was enamored. His love for the sport introduced him and Madison to many incredible friends, and he never missed an opportunity to play at any moment he could fit in a quick game. Away from the pickleball court, he loved any time spent with their dog Lulu, traveling the world, or enjoying their beautiful home state of Utah.

Rodrigo is survived by his beloved wife, Madison Aviles; his mother, Elizabeth Valdez; his father, Simon Aviles; his sister, Alejandra Beier; and his brother, Simon Aviles. He was preceded in death by his grandmothers, Marina Novillo and Leocadia Aviles.

Those who were blessed to have been able to spend time with him know the immense hole he leaves in all of our lives. He will be remembered and deeply missed.