Francisco G. Rodriguez was born May 31, 1928 in Eagle Pass, Texas to parents, Gonzalo and Apolonia Rodriguez. He joined the military at young age during WWII, and was later recruited to re-enlist during the Korean War. Francisco was very patriotic and proud of his service. Between his service dates he returned to the U.S. and married the love of his life, Julia (Saldivar) Rodriguez in San Juan, Texas on March 27, 1947. The couple worked in agriculture they followed the work; they moved to Illinois then Oregon and on to Idaho before settling in the Central Valley and laying down roots in Shafter. Francisco also worked as a school custodian, and even drove for the ambulance and funeral home over the years. He enjoyed music and he played the accordion, and he also loved gambling, especially his scratchers. Francisco is survived by his wife of nearly 70 years, Julia; his children, Margarita and Jesus Hernandez, Frank Rodriguez and Gail, Richard Rodriguez, Oscar Rodriguez and Cory, Mary and Juan Castillo, Carlos Rodriguez, Carmen and Armando Felix, Raul Rodriguez and Sandy, Gloria and Mark Gonzalez; and those he raised as his children, Noe Gonzalez and Martha, Rachel Gonzalez, and Jesse Rodriguez and Sophia; along with 44 grandchildren, 86 great grandchildren and 17 great great grandchildren. Francisco was preceded in death by his parents, Gonzalo and Apolonia; his son, Roberto Rodriguez; and his great grandchildren, Joseph Rodriguez and Holly Rodriguez.