Alex Rodela

Alex B. Rodela, 81, of San Jose, AZ, passed away on Monday, July 11, 2011 at his home surrounded by his loving family. He was born on February 9, 1930, in Morenci, AZ, to Casimiro Rodela and Refugio Burciaga. Alex attended schools in Morenci and graduated from Morenci High School, where he excelled in many sports. He was drafted into the U.S. army during the Korean Conflict. He married Vera Saenz and together they raised five children in Clifton. Alex coached many youth teams and worked as a painter for Phelps Dodge for over 32 years. He moved to San Jose in 1982, and married Nellie Sanchez in 1985. He served as commander of the American Legion for many years, and served in the Gila Valley Honor Guard for many years as well. He is survived by his wife Nellie of San Jose; daughters, Lydia Rodela Cress of San Jose, and Evelyn Rodela, of Chandler; sons, Richard (Dixie) Rodela of Mesa, Michael Rodela of San Jose, and Ronald Rodela of Kingman; stepson, Eddie (Annette) Sanchez of El Paso, TX; sisters, Natalia Peralta of San Jose, Ida (Bernabe) Morales of San Jose, and Angie (Acton) Black of Brookings, OR; brothers, Casey Rodela of Safford, Robert (Margaret) Rodela of Tucson, and Alby (Lupita) Rodela of Sanchez; six grandchildren and three great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; siblings, Lupe, Tony, Fred, Sulema Williams, and Maggie Tellez. Mass of a Christian Burial will be celebrated at 3:30 P.M. on Friday, July 15, 2011 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Safford with Father Edward Lucero as Celebrant. Friends may call prior to services at the church from 2 pm to 3:30 p.m. with Rosary being recited at 2:30.