Rodrigo Bernardo Aviles Valdez

Es aún difícil creer la partida del Ro ro, sepan que estamos al lado de ustedes, aún sin consuelo por su partida. Lo recordaremos y tendremos presente para siempre.
Carlos,Erika, Adrian, Mimo & Melanie

I am so deeply sorry for your loss and pain. I love you Madison.

I had the pleasure of being introduced to Rodrigo through his cousin, and my brother in law, Nick Valdez. From the moment we met, Rodrigo made me feel like we’d known each other for years. The comfort he provided in every conversation, the humor he brought to every story, truly made him one of a kind; and he will always be remembered that way. Rest in heavenly peace.

Rodrigo was truly one of my favorite pickleball partners ever...kind, encouraging, forgiving, competitive, and full of life and energy. What a pleasure it was to know him. My deepest condolences to his family whom he spoke so highly of.
Much love to you all.

Although we only had the pleasure of meeting Rodrigo twice at family gatherings, our experience was exactly as written in his beautiful tribute. He lit up the room and made us feel like instant family. We immediately felt his warmth and kindness. We will miss his loving charm at future family gatherings, but will no doubt feel his vibrant spirit. When God calls our loved ones Home, He leaves a gift of memories in return. We will always cherish our memories of Rodrigo. Our deepest and most sincere condolences to you all.

Mi más sentido pésame. Dios les de fortaleza para enfrentar tan duro momento

I pictured Rodrigo and I playing pickleball weekly into our 70s. We had played weekly since 2023 so we had established a really good habit together that was also my “escape” from all the outside stresses of life. He always found a way to make it happen in the extroverted, glue-like way the obituary mentioned. I also was his coworker and saw him be as professional as anyone can be. He handled set backs on the pickleball court and at work in a cheerful, positive, hopeful way. To use Ella Wheeler Wilcox’s words, Rodrigo was a “lifter” and not a “leaner”. He made life easier and funner for me.
I will try to be like that and carry his legacy in some small way.

He was such a fun, energetic, happy guy. I had the pleasure of playing many pickleball games with Rodrigo, and he was a force to be reckoned with! I will miss his smile. ❤️

We knew him since he was born, what a terrible loss.
All or blessings to Simon Beby and family from La Paz, Bolivia

Que el Señor le de paz y resignacion a Simon y a la familia. Simon te acompaño en tu dolor.
Uchi.

My wife and I met Rodrigo when we had first moved to Utah. We were at a social event with a bunch of people that we didn’t know, but Rodrigo’s warm smile and welcoming energy made him very easy to approach. Ever since that day, he’s been the absolute greatest friend. Rodrigo had a special ability to always make everyone around him happier. I’ve also always noticed and respected his immense love towards Madison and the way in which he prioritized his marriage. I’ll forever be grateful for the impact that he made on my life.

I was lucky enough to meet Rodrigo when he was in Chile with his beautiful wife Maddie visiting my dear cousin Steph Farías. From the first moment you could see the kindness, joy and deep love that Rodrigo and Maddie shared. It was a genuine and beautiful love, one of those that leave a mark forever.

There are not enough words for such great pain, but I want to send Maddie, Steph and Rodrigo's whole family a huge hug from a distance. May Rodrigo's love and memories always accompany you.

🫂,
Carla L Silva.

MIS MAS SENTIDOS PESAMES

We first met Rodrigo in Nevada through work. From the first few days at work, he made me feel welcome, included and part of the team. Rodrigo was a hard worker and put his heart into everything that he did. Rodrigo quickly grew from being a colleague to being a great friend and through him we were fortunate to meet his wonderful wife, Madison. Their love and connection was undeniable. Our best memories of living in the US have been with both Madison and Rodrigo, filled with travel, laughter and e-bike/scooter rides. We are so deeply sorry for this heartbreaking loss and sending our love to Madison, all of his family and friends.

Beby y Simi,
Cuánto siento la partida de Rochi. Tengo recuerdos tan bonitos de él y de su infancia junto a Juan Ignacio. Desde la guardería fueron amiguitos y compartieron hermosos momentos, que hoy guardo con mucho cariño en mi corazón.
Los abrazo con toda mi energía y mis pensamientos, deseando que poco a poco encuentren paz en sus corazones, llenándose siempre del amor, la luz y los recuerdos hermosos que Rochi dejó en ustedes y en todos los que lo quisimos.

En este momento de inmensa tristeza, acompaño de corazón a Simón y a su familia por la sensible pérdida de Rodrigo.

Deseo que encuentren consuelo en el amor de quienes los rodean y en los recuerdos compartidos que vivirán para siempre.

Mis más sinceras condolencias,
Carolina.

Que Dios lo tenga en su gloria al querido Rochi… lo recordaré con mucho cariño y muchas memorias del colegio vividas… mi más sentido pésame a su hermosa familia… estoy segura que Rochi guiará su camino por siempre🤍

Gracias Rochi por abrirme las puertas de una linda amistad, porque cada momento que la vida nos regalo juntos fue memorable. Me quedo con el mejor recuerdo de persona tuyo.
Mis más sentidas condolencias a toda la familia, que Dios te mantenga en su Gloria eterna.

I met Rodrigo through Madison but at the Picklr playing pickleball. Rodrigo and I were just reminiscing about those silly 2.5 tournaments we used to play and win in West Jordan, Utah. In the beginning when we started competing, I was a bit intimidated by all the men and how hard they hit the ball. I always felt relieved when I could team up with Rodrigo. He made me feel safe and supported. I quickly learned that he was a person of unquestionable integrity and honesty. He was kind, forgiving when I made mistakes, and someone who didn’t get all wrapped up in the total need to win a game. He had a good perspective on things. As someone who knew Madison before she met Rodrigo, I could see that he was completely devoted to her. And they had such a loving and respectful relationship. I am sad beyond words that he is no longer apart of this world. My heart goes out to Madison and the family. Rest in Great Peace my friend, Rodrigo. We will miss you deeply.

So heartbreaking. Rodrigo, I’ll miss teaming up with you, and the courts will feel a little different without you there. You played the same way you lived—calm, thoughtful, and controlled.
I’ll always remember our last conversation. We had both played twice in less than 24 hours, and I joked that maybe we needed to get a life. I was finished for the day and heading out of the club, but Rodrigo was still out there playing. I walked over to the court and called out, “Rodrigo, go home!” He just laughed.
Those ended up being my last words to him, and I’ll always cherish that moment.
Rodrigo, your presence, kindness, and quiet spirit will be deeply missed. May you find peace in your heavenly home.

Rodri, todavía no podemos entender tu partida pero tu memoria quedará siempre con nosotros.
Ale te amamos y acompañamos a ti y a toda la familia. Están en nuestras oraciones.

Nuestro Roro siempre será el niño travieso e intrépido que alegró nuestras vidas, ahora cada vez que miremos al cielo estará ahí sonriéndonos. Vive en nuestros corazones por la eternidad.

Pensar en el Rochi es pensar en una sonrisa. Sentimos mucho su partida y deseamos desde lo más profundo de nuestros corazones que puedan encontrar paz y luz en el recuerdo de esa sonrisa.

Rodrigo was my best friend ever since we met in high school. It was never a dull moment with him. I remember he would disconnect the mouse and keyboard from the machine during computer class and tell the teacher his computer froze, the teacher would type away codes on the keyboard to get the machine to unfreeze while we would laugh and laugh.

I always remember having a good time with Rochi. In college, we would see each other every chance we got even though he lived in Denver and then in Utah and I lived in Arkansas. I remember driving up every spring break to go skiing with him; thanksgiving in Washington, trips to NY, Miami and all across the US. I would look forward to seeing him every time. If he knew I was having a bad time or going through a rough moment, he would come visit and spend the weekend. It was always so fun. He loved to barbecue, to the point he once bought a grill during a trip so we could cook and have some drinks. He loved long chats, we would reminisce school days and stay up all night chatting and listening to music we enjoyed.

There will never be a person that can replace Rochi. He leaves this world with a part of my heart, and leaves behind many of the best memories of my life.

Wherever he is, I will always remember the friend I would call first if I had a problem or to share good news with.

I pray that his wife Maddy, who became a dear friend and his family, which we know for so long can find peace. We all smile when we think of Rochi. Until we meet again my dear friend.

We are both heartbroken and saddened by your loss, Madison. There are no words we can say to take away your pain. Please accept our condolences and know we are thinking of you during this difficult time.

Rodrigo was everyone’s favorite pickleball bestie—always bringing the laughs and good vibes on and off the court. His encouraging and happy nature made each person feel like a pickleball champion. He led with kindness and positivity whether we were winning, losing, or opposing each other. Every game with Rodrigo was an absolute joy, and getting to know him through pickleball was an absolute privilege. He often relayed stories about his travels with his wife and his family visits with a big smile. He will be sorely missed and fondly remembered for his big heart and perfectly placed corner dinks.

Madison, I’m so sorry for this unimaginable loss. Sending love to your family.

Rochito de mi corazón… tu partida inesperada duele hasta el alma.💔
Pero vivirás siempre en mi corazón, mis pensamientos y todos los hermosos recuerdos, anécdotas compartidas contigo desde que eras un niñito pequeño y jugabas con esa tu sonrisa dulce con tu amigo y hermano Eze.
Siempre vivirás en nuestros corazones.
Te amaremos siempre por que fuiste parte de la familia.
Los Imaña.
Descansa en paz en el paraíso donde solo hay paz y felicidad. 🤍✨🙏🏻

Rodrigo, we had the opportunity to meet you at the home of our friends Carlos and Yazmin Farías, parents of Madi’s best friend, Stephy. From the very first moment we met you, we could see what a bright and wonderful young man you were. You had such a special gift for connecting with everyone around you and making people care for you because of your kind heart and beautiful personality.
We are deeply saddened by your sudden departure. Fly high, and from wherever you are, please watch over Madi. May God receive you with open arms and eternal peace. We also pray that your family finds strength, comfort, and love during these incredibly difficult moments.
You will always be remembered with great affection.

What a gift it has been to have a friend like Rochi! I will forever cherish all the fun memories we shared together ever since we were kids. From being neighbors and riding our bikes full speed in the garage structure of our building to see who could make it to the bottom floor the fastest….Or the failed attempts of “baseball games” that ended up with the baseball bat accidentally flying down the cliff, to then high school gatherings and parties, to college spring break/ random trips,and then adult life.
I knew I could always come to him for advice and a good laugh. He always brought the good sense of humor and the one liners that had everyone cracking up… And not to mention his very contagious laugh.
Thank you, Rochi, for bringing so much joy to everyone that knew you. Rest easy, friend!

To Maddy, Simon, Bebi, Ale, Simi, and the Aviles Valdez family - Please accept my deepest condolences during this difficult time.

I graduated with Rodrigo from the U in metallurgical engineering. It was a small program so i had many classes with him and i would not have made it through some of those classes without his help. He was so kind and funny and easy to talk to. Love you Rodrigo and love you Madison ♥️

On behalf of the Valdés Fernandez family, we extend our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Rodrigo Bernardo Aviles Valdez. May God surround you with His peace, strength, and comfort during this difficult time.

“Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes, I will help you.”
Isaiah 41:10

With love and prayers,
The Valdés Fernandez Family

Dear Beby and family,

As a mother, my heart aches for you during this unimaginable loss. I still remember Rodrigo from the Saint Andrew’s School years, always kind, warm, joyful, and full of life. He had a special light that made people feel welcomed and loved, and it is clear that he carried that same beautiful spirit throughout his entire life.

There are no words that can truly ease the pain of losing a son, but I pray that God holds you close and gives you strength day by day. Rodrigo leaves behind a legacy of love, friendship, joy, and unity that will never be forgotten by all who had the blessing of knowing him.

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
— Psalm 46:1

May the Lord surround your family with His peace and comfort, and may Rodrigo’s beautiful memory live forever in your hearts.

With deepest sympathy, love, and prayers,
The Valdés Fernández Family

Lo llevo en el corazón con inmenso cariño. Su sonrisa y sencillez, sus momentos con compañeros, su esencia, todos los recuerdos quedan en mi. Gracias Rochi.
Beby, un abrazo con inmenso cariño!

I only got to hang out with him a few times, but those moments, especially the parties with Madison and Stephanie, were genuinely fun. He brought a good energy, and a cheerful smile. I’ll remember him that way. My deepest condolences to his family and friends.

Lo siento mucho por tu pérdida.

Rochi, today it is very hard for us to accept your passing. We will always remember you for all the joy and warmth you brought into our lives. We shared moments and memories that will forever remain in our hearts. It hurts to know that you are no longer with us, and we will miss you deeply. May God receive you in His arms and may you fly high. We will never forget you.

Elisabeth and Mónica

Muy queridos amigos Beby y Simón.

Recordamos con mucho cariño a Rodriguito desde la Guardería Iby y muy especialmente cuando ingresó al Colegio el primer día de clases de la mano de Irene.

Reciban nuestro sentimiento de profundo dolor y tristeza por su fallecimiento.
Nos duele mucho su pérdida.
No podemos entender cómo pudo haber sucedido semejante tragedia.

Les mandamos un inmenso abrazo.

Veronica Balcázar y Jimmy Burgoa

Dear friends Beby and Simón,
We fondly remember Rodriguito from his time at the Iby Daycare, and especially from his first day of school, hand in hand with Irene.
Please accept our deepest condolences and sorrow for his passing.
We are heartbroken by his loss.
We cannot comprehend how such a tragedy could have occurred.
We send you our warmest regards.
Veronica Balcázar and Jimmy Burgoa

mi mas sentido pésame querida Beby para ti y toda la familia! Rodriguito estará siempre en nuestros corazones ❤️ . QEPD💔💔💔

Siempre recordaré al Rochi por lo bueno que era, siempre con los pies en la tierra. En la vida hay cosas que no tienen consuelo. Mi más sentido pésame para toda la familia y amigos.

Rochi, eres eterno.

Querido Simón, Beby y familia … No hay palabras para describir la enorme pérdida que están viviendo … más existe una sola palabra que pueda aminorar su pérdida … Amor … Love … Amor a Dios … Amor a su recuerdo … Amor que sintió el por ustedes y ustedes por el … Love for the wonderful life he lead … Love for the care and duty he had for all aspects of a full life … Family, Profesión, Sports, Ethics and Morals … Bright in mind and spirit … We will miss him dearly … Nuestros más sinceros pésames en este momento tan difícil … Dios lo tiene en su Gloria … Q.E.P.D

I am deeply grateful for all the moments I shared with Rochi. He was someone with whom I could laugh endlessly. Although life and distance took us down different paths, every time we saw each other, we would pick up right where we left off... talking, reminiscing, and laughing about the wonderful memories we shared.

Rochi came from a wonderful family that has always shown me nothing but kindness and warmth. That same spirit was reflected in him. I will always remember his positive attitude, and the way he made those around him smile.

Bebi, Simon, Ale, Simon Jr and Madison; please know that I am holding all of you close to my heart and am thinking of you with great affection during this incredibly difficult time.

Dear Madison,

We hope you find place and comfort in the memories you shared with him.

Sending you a hug from afar.

To a great guy who bought alot of love ❤️ to both my lovely niece and our Family. R.I.P Rodrigo you will Always be remembered and never forgotten

Mi amada Beby, amiga de mi corazón, sé que no hay palabras que puedan consolarte en esta difícil prueba que estás pasando, sé que Rochi era todo en tu vida y tú para él, son sucesos que no los entendemos y solo con el tiempo y con el amor de Dios llegará esa paz que sobrepasa todo entendimiento, Rochi fué y seguirá siendo un ser de luz que nunca dejará de cuidarte a ti y a Maddi
Las abrazo para las dos con toda la fuerza y amor de mi corazón
Rochito descansa paz, vuela alto y vive la vida eterna junto a nuestro creador
🤍🕊️🕊️🤍

Querida amiga y familia. Dios les de mucha fortaleza en este momento tan duro para poder superar un dolor tan grande. Descanse En Paz Rodrigo querido 🙏🙏

Nuestro sentido pésame por tan grande pérdida . Rodrigo estará en el cielo rodeado de un ejército de ángeles de.
Papis, rezando por su fortaleza
🙏

Mi más sentido pésame a Beby, Simón, Ale y Simón (hijo) .. lo siento en el alma y deseo que Dios les de fortaleza y mucha paz en este duro momento.. les mando un abrazo 🤗 gigante!!

Es imposible pensar en el Rochi sin reírme a carcajadas al acordarme de todo lo que vivimos, de todas las conversaciones, de su humor tan único, de esa risa contagiosa y ese sarcasmo que lo hacía imposible de olvidar. Va a estar siempre en mi corazón.

Sé que cada vez que suene una buena cumbia me voy a acordar de él, con las manos arriba, brindando con un chuflay y haciéndonos reír a todos.

Para siempre, negrito. 🤍

Maddy, tía Bebi y toda la familia, les mando mi más sentido pésame. Que Dios les dé mucha fuerza, paz y resignación para atravesar este dolor tan grande. Les mando muchísimo amor y un abrazo enorme.

We are beyond devastated by the loss of our beloved friend, Rodrigo. Rodrigo had the natural ability to always make your day better. His kindness, generosity, optimism, and sense of humor brought so much joy into our lives. Pickleball sessions, hot pot dinners, watchings sports, golf outings, board game nights, and more were all made better with Rodrigo there. The love that Madison and Rodrigo share for each other has always been so evident, and we have admired them so much as a couple.

Madison, we are so very sorry for this unimaginable loss, and we send you so much love.

Rodrigo, your absence is already felt deeply in our lives. We love you and miss you.

On behalf of the Deriemaeker family we offer sincere condolences. Our prayers are with the family during this difficult time. May God grant peace and healing for everyone 🙏

It is with a heavy heart that I say goodbye to Rodrigo. I only worked with him for a short time but I was so happy to have such a thoughtful and caring addition to the team and excited to see where he would go. Such a tragic loss, he will be dearly missed.

Querido Rodrigo, everytime that I think of you, it will be with that big smile and that kindness that didn’t just come from words, but from your bright eyes. We will never forget you. Sending love to Madison, your parents and sibilings; y para ti, un gran abrazo al cielo.

Nuestro más sincero pésame Maddi y Fam. Aviles Valdez. Que Dios les dé el consuelo, fortaleza y paz en estos momentos tan difíciles. Le damos gracias a Dios por habernos dado el privilegio de conocer y convivir con Rodrigo. Siempre lo recordaremos.

Que el amor de quienes los rodean les dé fuerza para atravesar este difícil momento. Nuestros pensamientos y oraciones están con ustedes.

Una huella eterna por esos incontables momentos de risas, charlas, escuchar música, comer y prácticamente crecer juntos... Me quedo con el corazón lleno de recuerdos y con el privilegio de haber compartido tantos años contigo. Fuiste y serás una persona muy importante en mi vida, hermano del alma. Te voy a extrañar muchísimo y llevo conmigo la convicción de que algún día nos volveremos a encontrar.

Mis más sinceras condolencias y cariño para toda la familia.

My husband, Chase, and I first met Rodrigo and Madison not long after moving to Utah. It’s been an absolute blessing getting to know Rodrigo and Madison over the years and share so many fun memories, conversations, and special moments together.

One of the things that stood out most about Rodrigo was what a genuinely good person he was. He was incredibly well mannered, always holding the door open for others, thoughtful, and so deeply caring towards Madison.

Rodrigo was so much fun to be around because of how funny, and conversational he was. He was the kind of person you could talk to for hours and never grow tired of the conversation.

I will always look up to the way Rodrigo lived his life, putting others before himself, showing kindness so naturally, and making everyone around him feel seen and valued.

We miss him deeply, and we feel so grateful to have known him and to have created life long memories with him and Madison.

We are sending all our love and prayers to Madison and both of their families during this incredibly difficult time.

I knew Rodrigo through work, but we really became close after we started playing pickleball together. We had so many fun times joking around, blaming each other for mistakes, and even calling our defense the “Great Wall” because of how good we thought it was. Some of my best memories in Utah were with him—playing pickleball, eating hot pot, having drinks together, playing board games, and just laughing nonstop.

Looking back, Rodrigo was there for so many of the most important moments not only in my life, but in my family’s life here in Utah. He was always supportive, always smiling, always ready to lend a hand. When our son Theo was born last year, Rodrigo was incredibly supportive during such an overwhelming and emotional time for us. From the hospital to the days after, he showed so much care and love for Theo, and it meant more to our family than words can describe. I have always been, and always will be, grateful that we got to create so many great lifelong memories together.

My wife and I also really admired the love between Rodrigo and Madison. They were truly inseparable, and the care and respect they had for each other was something special to witness. You could see how much they loved and supported one another in everything they did. We truly learned so much from them, and they showed me what it means to be a caring and supportive husband.

I send my deepest condolences to both families and all the close friends carrying this sadness. I truly believe he is still with us as long as we remember him and continue loving him.

Rest in peace, brother. I’ll see you down the road. Until then, you better keep practicing your pickleball on the other side so we can build the “Great Wall” again when I see you.

Querida familia,

Palabras no bastan para expresar lo mucho que lo sentimos. Aunque nos separen muchos kilómetros, estamos muy cerca en nuestros pensamientos y corazones. Estamos con ustedes en este momento.

Beby querida mi ❤️ contigo y tu familia.

Oh the heavy weight of my heart when I learned about Rodrigo’s passing. His smile and positive energy lit up the courts. You could feel his presence throughout the entire club. I nicknamed him “The Lobster” for his awesome lobs that would catch you off guard. One can only feel great sadness for the loss of your loved one. Madison, there are no words that could express my full condolences. Loves to you. My heart goes out to you and your family always, and especially at this very difficult time. xo

My solidarity to the family of my dearest friend Bebi. God bless all of you and give you peace of mind and heart.

Que el Señor les conceda a toda la familia, paz y consuelo en este tiempo dificil.
Nuestro mas sentido pesame

Rodri will always be remembered as the loving, joyful, and fun person he was. I will always cherish our cousins’ reunions in Cochabamba and the memories we shared together. Sending my deepest condolences to the entire family.

I am so sorry for this loss for Madison and all of the family. My deepest sympathies to you now and my hopes that you can find peace and comfort in the happiest of memories with Rodrigo.

De parte de Andrea y Felipe, queremos expresarles cuánto sentimos la partida de Rochi. Nos duele muchísimo esta noticia y acompañamos a toda la familia con mucho cariño en este momento tan difícil.
Tuvimos la alegría de verlo el año pasado en el cumpleaños del Cambita en Santa Cruz, y recordamos también con mucho cariño cómo se ofreció con tanta naturalidad a ayudarnos cuando estábamos planeando nuestra mudanza a Estados Unidos.
La Promo 2010 siente profundamente su pérdida. Su risa contagiosa seguirá resonando siempre en nuestros recuerdos.

De Feli: “Querido Rodri, me enseñaste a reír desde lo profundo, a jugar sin límites, a compartir lo bueno y lo malo y siempre encontrar el humor en este caos. Qué fortuna haber disfrutado de tu luz y aprendido de la vida a tu lado. Estarás siempre en mí, gracias por tanto.”

Les mandamos un abrazo enorme a toda la familia, y especialmente a Simmi, nuestro querido hermano, a quien abrazamos con el alma.

No lo conocia pero los asistentes dieron testimonio de la linda persona que fue . La palabra fuerte que resono fue que era GENUINO sentidos pesames Bebi y Simon y familia

Definitivamente nos dejo alguien muy querido y especial, Beby querida te mando toda la fuerza posible en estos tan duros momentos, y te abrazo con el corazon

Lamentamos de gran manera la partida de Rodri, y los acompañamos con todo el corazón en este duro y difícil momento. Un fuerte abrazo desde la distancia.
Familia Arandia Tejerina

My wife and I met Rodrigo and Madison shortly after they moved into our apartment community, and I’m incredibly grateful to say they became some of our closest friends. The memories we shared are ones I will cherish forever.

Rodrigo was the kind of person whose character leaves a lasting impact. He was always present, caring, and able to bring laughter and joy into every room he entered. The light he carried with him is something I will always remember and continue to carry with me.

I’ll never forget our long game nights, the intense pickleball matches we got to play together, or our unforgettable trip to Seattle — memories and stories that will forever make me smile.

We are praying for Madison and both families during this incredibly difficult time. Rodrigo will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.

In memory of our beloved cousin, Rodriguito

From your childhood, you were a presence filled with light, joy, and an unmistakable spark. I cherish memories that time will not erase: an afternoon at Cahita's house sharing comics and those memorable birthday celebrations that reflected your enthusiasm for life. More recently, at Christmas 2024 in Bolivia, it was a true privilege to have shared time with you and your wife; a gathering I now treasure as a final gift.

Although it is difficult to comprehend your untimely departure, we find comfort in knowing that you will live eternally in our hearts. Your legacy of joy and the beautiful moments you gave to this family will remain intact in our memory.

To my dear aunt and uncle, Simon and Elizabeth, I send a deep and fraternal embrace. May my solidarity and strength accompany you in this moment of profound sorrow.

---------

En memoria de nuestro querido primo, Rodriguito

Desde tu infancia, fuiste una presencia llena de luz, alegría y una chispa inconfundible. Guardo con inmenso cariño recuerdos que el tiempo no borrará: una tarde e casa de Cahita compartiendo historietas y aquellas memorables celebraciones de cumpleaños que reflejaban tu entusiasmo por la vida. Más recientemente, en la Navidad de 2024 en Bolivia, fue un verdadero privilegio haber compartido contigo y tu esposa; un encuentro que hoy atesoro como un regalo final.

Aunque resulta difícil comprender tu partida prematura, encontramos consuelo en saber que vivirás eternamente en nuestros corazones. Tu legado de alegría y los momentos hermosos que brindaste a esta familia permanecerán intactos en nuestra memoria.

Para mis queridos tíos, Simon y Elizabeth, envío un abrazo profundo y fraterno. Que mi solidaridad y fortaleza los acompañen en este momento de profundo pesar.

Rodrigo and Madison were our neighbors at our apartment complex in Daybreak. We got to know them over the last few years and they became cherished friends of ours, ones we could pick up right where we left off with after not seeing each other for a bit.
I am so thankful that we knew Rodrigo in his too short time here on earth. He was truly kind in a way many aren't. It was evident that he genuinely cared about the people in his life, and took the time to ask questions and really listen. He devoted time and energy to the things he loved, but most importantly to the people he loved.
I will never forget the nights the four of us spent together sharing dinner, playing Catan, ranting (and laughing) about all the issues at our apartment complex, our camping trip, our trip to Seattle, and so many other hours spent together.
The news of Rodrigo's passing came as a shock, one that won't ever fade. I am thanking God for the time we were blessed to know him, and praying for peace and comfort for Madison and the families as they navigate this tragedy. Rodrigo was a treasure to this world.

Hello. I remember you glowing with happiness and pride at your wedding, and visiting the guests at the meal. It’s a memory I cherish and I’m so glad I got to meet you. I hope you’re resting peacefully now.

To everyone who loved Rodrigo: the pain won’t go away, but it will become easier to carry as time passes.

I have had the privilege of working with Rodrigo for several years. He was always such a pleasure to be around. Creative and enthusiastic, he took pride in what he did and was a caring and empathetic team mate. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and best wishes to Madison and family.

Te mando un abrazo fuerte y sentido querida Bebi, la perdida de un hijo no tiene Palabras.
Que encuentres en Dios resignación por tan irreparable pérdida.

Bernarda Muñoz Elsner

I was Rochi’s cousin. We were both born in La Paz Bolivia, just a few months apart. We grew up together.

As infants, I have memories of us playing in our abuelita marina’s house. We would race down the longs halls, cry when we fell and do it all over again and again.

As kids, I remember the long summer days we spent at summer camp in Washington DC. Rochi loved ice cream and to collect Pokémon cards.

As we got older and became young adults I remember Rochi taking me to my first joda . For those of you that don’t know that is what Bolivians call house parties. Rochi took me under his wing and introduced me to his wonderful friends. We went from long summer days at camp to long nights downtown.

After college as we became young adults. Rochi settled in the west coast and I settled in the east coast. We would meet up at least three times a year to grill and jam out to los kjrarkas. It was during these grilling sessions where we would have record long roasting sessions where we probably roasted many of you reading this.

As adults, our brotherhood kept maturing and as did we. I remember asking Rochi how to ask my father in law for his permission to marry my now wife. I remember asking for help to find a suit just like the one he wore at his wedding a few years ago.

I was fortunate to create and share so many memories and experiences with Rochi during the time we spent in this world together. They were some of the best of my life and shaped who I am today.

I was heartbroken, frustrated and confused when I learned of Rochi’s passing. It didn’t make sense why god called on him right now. There was so much good left for Rochi to do and spread.

It was during my grieving and reminiscing of my time with Rochi that I realized God granted us 33 beautiful years of his presence.

And that my pain and sadness came from knowing that in those 33 years, Rochi has done so much good for us and our world. He was a kind, generous, compassionate and loving human being.

I believe that God now needs a soul as strong, loving, and extraordinary as Rochi for something far greater and more glorious than we can understand right now. Rochi gave and taught us so much already.

I’m sad, as all of you are right now, but I am more grateful that god put Rochi in my life.

Rochi thank you for so much, I love you and I miss you. Until we meet again brother.