James Galves Rodriguez

James Galves Rodriguez 1911-2010 James (Jimmy) Rodriguez, aged 99, passed away after a brief illness on August 15, 2010 surrounded by his loving family. Jimmy and his twin sister Rosie were born July 25, 1911 in Waialua, Hawaii. Jimmy?s family then traveled to California in 1919 and finally settled in Monterey in 1927. Jimmy spent two years employed with the California Conservation Corp working on phone lines and fighting fires in Northern California. He then worked for Del Monte Packing Corporation as Refrigeration Supervisor on Cannery Row for 25 years. Jimmy witnessed the rise and fall of the sardine industry on Cannery Row and was able to retell stories, often dubious, of early Monterey and its characters. Jimmy then retired from the Asilomar Conference Grounds as Maintenance Engineer after 15 years. Jimmy was a wonderful and caring father, grandfather, and great-grandfather who loved spending time with his family telling entertaining stories. His greatest joys came from his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He also loved cooking, gardening and a good crab feed. He was a very smart man who could fix anything, and always enjoyed a good boxing match. His strong will, determination, and good health enabled him to live at home until his passing. He was very loved and appreciated. Preceding him in death were his wife of 61 years, Marie; brothers Manuel, Johnny, and Joe; sisters, Rose Heisinger, Laura Lucido and Sally Ruccello. Jimmy is survived by his loving daughters Rose Saunders (Bert) of Monterey, Linda Rodriguez (Lawrence Lyonhardt) of Carmel; grandchildren Christine Russo (Andrew), Darren Sullivan (Suzie) both of Monterey and Steven Saunders (Juana) of Woodland. Jim also leaves behind three great grandchildren and one on the way: Nicholas Russo, Charlee Sullivan, and Leonardo Saunders. Jimmy?s family would like to thank the CHOMP staff at Main Pavilion, Terrace West and Westland house, and Dr. John Hausdorff for kindness and compassion during Jimmy?s final days. The family suggests donations in Jimmy?s name be sent to The Gateway Center, 850 Congress, Pacific Grove, CA 93950 and The Kinship Center, 124 River Road, Salinas, CA 93908. A viewing will be held on Thursday, August 19, from 6pm-7pm with the Vigil starting at 7pm at the Mission Mortuary. Graveside services will be held Friday, August 20 at 10am at Monterey City Cemetery with an honorary lunch to follow at the Bay Park Hotel located at 1425 Munras Avenue in Monterey.