Rodney Moniz Moreno

Rodney Moniz Moreno 

(March 3, 1943 – March 11, 2025)

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Rodney Moniz Moreno, 82, who passed away peacefully in Sacramento, California. He was surrounded by loved ones in his final moments.

Rod was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, and often reminisced about his adventurous childhood on Oahu, sharing countless stories of mischief and exploration. His love for Hawaiian music, Polynesian festivals and traditions, and his deep respect for nature and its gifts reflected his island roots.

Rod started a family in 1975 in Riverside, California, where he and his wife attended the University of California, Riverside (UCR). He was later employed in the university’s botany department, assisting with UCR’s agricultural research projects. There, he cared for greenhouse plants, mixed and tested soils, collected insects from the orchards, and harvested fruit. After retirement, Rod moved to Sacramento to be closer to his family and grandchildren. There, he found joy in volunteering at the Sacramento Children’s Home.

A man of both adventure and solitude, Rod traveled across the country and the world, but he also found great comfort in the quiet moments of home and enjoyed watching sports. A true foodie, he had a talent for discovering local mom-and-pop restaurants and had a particular fondness for pastries. Rod was also known for his effortless sense of style and love for jazz music. His warmth, charm, and playful sense of humor made him unforgettable.

Rod’s life was filled with its own unique complexities. The love he carried for his children and grandchildren was a source of comfort. May they always carry forward the best parts of him.

He is survived by his four children, thirteen grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren, and a larger extended family including siblings, cousins, nieces, nephews, and goddaughter.

A special acknowledgment is given to Martha Gutierrez and Rosa de Anda, who remained a close part of Rod’s life and cared for him with great compassion during his final months.

In remembrance of Rod, contributions can be made to the Sacramento Children’s Home, an organization close to his heart.

E mālama ‘ia ‘oe e ke Akua. A hui hou.

🌴🌊❤️🌅🌺

(May you be cared for by God. Until we meet again.)