Obituaries

Micheal Thomas Rodriguez, born January 3, 1969, in Defiance, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on September 24, 2024. He was 55 years old.

Micheal was a devoted father to his three beloved children: Autumn, Summer, and Carter. His love for them was the foundation of his life, and they were his greatest pride and joy. Micheal was the treasured son of Gina (Barbara) and her late husband Pedro Villa Rodriguez, and a loving brother to Jeffrey (Dale Lehmann) and Roberto (Stephanie). Micheal was also the cherished uncle of Maya (Justin), Mateo, and Pedro. Beyond his immediate family, Micheal had countless loved ones who cherished him—he was a cousin, nephew, uncle, and a dear friend to many. He is preceded in death by his father, Pedro, with whom he will be laid to rest.

A proud graduate of Rossford High School, Class of 1987, Micheal carried his Bulldog spirit with him throughout his life. He was known for his remarkable generosity, strong work ethic, and his deep love for family, friends, and community. A skilled journeyman electrician, Micheal worked for General Motors for 28 years, where he was a dedicated member of the United Auto Workers union, always advocating for the rights and well-being of his fellow workers.

Micheal’s love for the arts was evident through his passion for music and theater. He performed on stages throughout Northwest Ohio, where his powerful voice and presence left a lasting impression on audiences. His love for music extended beyond the stage—he was a gifted singer and a devoted fan of artists like Elvis, U2, R.E.M., and Frank Sinatra. Karaoke nights with friends were a regular joy in his life, where his voice was always a highlight.

An incredible cook, Micheal was known especially for his tamales and signature steaks, which were beloved by all who had the pleasure of tasting them. He took great pride in preparing meals for family and friends, turning every gathering into a celebration of good food and togetherness.

Micheal was an active member of the Rossford Fraternal Order of Eagles #2322, where he served as Trustee and contributed to the community he cared so much about. His commitment to family and friends, his passion for the causes he believed in, and his love for the Ohio State Buckeyes and Miami Dolphins were defining parts of his life.

As Elvis once sang, “If I can dream of a better land, where all my brothers walk hand in hand,” Micheal believed in a world where family, friends, and community came first—always working toward making that dream a reality in his own way.

Friends and family are invited to celebrate Micheal’s life at Walker Sujkowski Funeral Home in Rossford on Sunday, September 29, from 1-5 pm. Fraternal Order of Eagles Service will be held at 4 pm. Funeral services will be held at Walker Sujkowski on Monday, September 30, at 1 pm, followed by burial at Restlawn Memorial Park in Perrysburg, Ohio, where Micheal will be laid to rest beside his father, Pedro.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Micheal’s memory to the Rossford Fraternal Order of Eagles #2322, an organization that was close to his heart.

Micheal's love, kindness, and passion for life will forever be remembered by all who knew him. Though his passing was sudden, his spirit lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched.