Manuel "Jack" Rodriguez

ARIZONA CITY - Manuel Juan "Jack" Rodriguez, 88, of Arizona City and Gig Harbor, Wash., died on April 19, 2014, at Oasis Pavilion Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Casa Grande.

Mr. Rodriguez was born on Oct. 9, 1925, in Erie, Pa., and was a son of Manuel and Soledad (Arajuo) Rodriguez. A Navy veteran of World War II, he served on the aircraft carrier Belleau Wood in the South Pacific. He received a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from the University of Miami and was co-president of Arctic Consulting Engineers in Anchorage, Alaska, where he lived for many years.

He was an avid golfer and lover of old western movies, modern technology, classic poetry and world philosophies. His passion for reading and research and his ability to translate complicated concepts for others to understand and appreciate was treasured by many. He enjoyed annual family reunions in Pennsylvania attended by more than 150.

Survivors include his wife, Gerda; three sons, John, Paul and Manuel J. Jr.; a brother, Albert; four sisters, Mary, Shirley, Betty and Jenny; and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Dolores.

J. Warren Funeral Services, Mountain View Chapel was in charge of arrangements.