Anthony Joseph Rodriguez

Anthony "Tony" Rodriguez

June 10, 1943 – March 26, 2026

On March 26, 2026, Tony Rodriguez, age 83, passed away following a courageous battle with Dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Under the loving care of Daniel and Forti Barber, our angels on earth.

Tony was born on June 10, 1943, in Nahuatzen, Mexico, to Leopoldo and Betty Rodriguez. His family later moved to West Fargo, North Dakota, where Tony grew into a standout athlete at West Fargo High School. Graduating in 1962, he excelled in football, track, and basketball, setting records that remained unbroken for over 20 years.

Tony loved classic cars. Over the years, he owned a ’57 Ford Skyliner convertible, but he was most recognized behind the wheel of his beloved ’64 Buick Riviera. After attending Morehead State on a football scholarship, he had to drop out due to a knee injury. Tony headed for California but stopped in Denver to drop off his brother’s dog and never left. It was here that he met his soulmate, Linda Tompt. They were married on March 30, 1967, and were just days away from celebrating their 59th wedding anniversary at the time of his passing.

Tony dedicated 29 years to a distinguished career in law enforcement, serving most notably as a Homicide Detective with the Aurora Police Department. Following his retirement, he worked as a private investigator before finding a second calling as a carver. He spent many happy years hand-carving Native American Kachina dolls and established The Crow Mother Gallery to share his work.

In 2005, Tony and Linda moved from Aurora to Agate, to build their forever home. Tony found his greatest joy in the quiet of the plains, especially when his granddaughters came to visit and explore the great outdoors with him.

Tony is survived by his loving wife, Linda; his son, Mark; grandkids, Justice, Monique, Alicia, Cory, Jazmynn, Janai; daughter, Dena (Kris) Zerr; granddaughters, Noelani and Taryn. He is also survived by his brothers, Manny (Veronica) Rodriguez, Greg (Mary) Rodriguez, and Ralph Rodriguez, sister Guadalupe (Don) Simpson of Colorado, and Fred (Barb) Rodriguez of West Fargo, ND; and many cherished nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Leopoldo and Betty Rodriguez; his brother, Leo (Lucille) Rodriguez, Jr.; and his sisters, Martha (Benjamin) Diego, Adela (Joe) Puente, and Leona (Gene) Strobel.

Tony was a kind man, a soft-spoken soul who always saw the good in others. His family and friends will fondly remember his warm smile and compassionate heart, traits that truly defined him.

Anthony Joseph Rodriguez’s memory will live on in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known him, and his spirit will continue to inspire as a beacon of kindness and resilience. His journey may have ended, but his legacy of love and caring will forever endure.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes contributions made in Tony’s memory to Vested Interest in K9 and Spikes K9.