Harry Rodriguez, 79, a dedicated and compassionate Navy Veteran, passed away on February 18, 2025 at the Bronx VA Medical Center after a long illness. He was a resident of Hopewell Junction for 37 years and he previously resided in Woodside, Queens.

Born in Manhattan on November 3, 1945, he was the son of Antero and Iris (Rivera) Rodriguez who predeceased him.

On August 24, 1968 in Woodside, he married the love of his life, Linda, who survives at home. Also surviving are his children, Dawn Rodriguez and husband Chuck Vigna, Adam Rodriguez and wife Karin, as well as his three grandchildren, Benjamin, Maryella and Jaxon. Harry is also survived by his older brother, Edwin Rodriguez, and older sisters, Iris Melillo and Evelyn Kronsis as well as his many nephews, nieces, in-laws and many lifelong friends.

Harry proudly served in the US Navy during the Vietnam War Era on the USS FDR and USS America. Harry connected with every veteran he met. He often told Vietnam vets "Welcome Home" which often brought these heroes to tears. Harry took pleasure organizing trips to NYC with his Navy buddies so they could march in the Veteran's Day parade. Harry was a member of the USS America Carrier Veterans' Association. He was always seen wearing his Navy caps and t-shirts. He had such pride for the American Flag that he would often correct people for not properly using the appropriate right sided flag patch.

Harry was an avid NY Mets fan whose vast knowledge of baseball trivia was unmatched.

He was the owner of The DAHL group where he had a tax practice for over 40 years and had a side business selling military items. He had such a strong work ethic which he instilled in his children.

Harry had a larger-than-life personality. He was a very generous soul who was always willing to go above and beyond for others. He was a beacon of light to those fortunate to cross paths with him. To know Harry, was to love him.

Harry's greatest joy was when he was together with his family, times he referenced as "QT" (aka- Quality Time). From coaching his son's Little League games, teaching his daughter how to give a firm handshake and supporting his grandchildren with their sports and education, Harry was there. He was the greatest storyteller. He had an uncanny way of creating stories which were captivating and so vivid. Harry always placed his family first. He never had any regrets as he lived life to the fullest.

Our hearts will never be the same. We will miss him every day.

Rest easy, Sailor. Until we meet again.

A celebration of Harry's life will occur in the future.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Harry's name to The USS America Carrier Veteran's Association (CVA).