David Rodriguez

On Sunday, August 13, 2023, David Anthony Rodriguez passed away at the age of 51.

David “Dave” was born on December 9, 1971 in Colby, Kansas, to Gilbert Rodriguez, Sr., and Florence Rodriguez. Dave spent most of his childhood and school-age years in Colby, graduating from Colby High in 1990. Then the real fun began… Dave attended college in Manhattan where he met his life-long best friends, who would be at his side, attending concerts, parties, and not many classes. After leaving Manhattan, Dave returned to Colby and soon began a career as a Colby police officer. His passion for his job was amazing to watch and he served proudly. A short time later, he met Jessica, together having their beloved daughter Maya in 2005. It wasn’t until several years later Dave learned he had cancer. His battle began. Dave received treatment and went into remission for several years, then the cancer returned with no known cure. Although this darkness cast a wide net, he did not allow it to keep him from the things he loved, including camping, hiking, and rock-climbing. In 2010, he met Kelsi, together having Kadence in 2012. His world revolved around his girls and his devotion to them was fierce.

Throughout his life, Dave was a true intellectual, quoting philosophers, researching ancient history, studying WWII, and answering the most random trivia questions. There wasn’t a topic Dave wouldn’t discuss, and everything fascinated him. He was a stubborn force, an unrelenting advocate for what he believed in, and for doing what truly moves you in your life. Loud, funny, and incredibly charming, Dave made an instant impact on everyone who met him and on thousands who never will.

Dave was preceded in death by his mother, Florence. He is survived by his father Gilbert Rodriguez, Sr., his step mother Celia Rodriguez; his daughters Maya and Kadence, siblings Eddie Rojas and his wife Amy, of Garden City, Brian Rojas and his wife Desiree, of Aurora, Colorado, Gilbert Rodriguez Jr., and his wife Sulita, of Garden City, Rina Brungardt and Jason Galli of Colby, and Adrienne Weigand of Lubbock, Texas.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, September 2, at 2:00 pm., at The Gathering Place, 745 S. Country Club Dr, Colby, Kansas. Memorials may be made to his daughters, Maya Rodriguez or Kadence Rodriguez, to help with their education, and sent in care of Baalmann Mortuary, PO Box 391, Colby, KS 67701. For information or condolences visit baalmannmortuary.com