It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Esther Solorio Rodriguez, a beloved matriarch, who left us peacefully on September 24, 2024. Born October 23, 1939 in La Piedad, Michoacán, Mexico, Esther was a woman of immense strength and kindness. She was the cherished wife of Juan Rodriguez, her partner in life and love, and together they built a family that spans generations.

Esther and Juan were blessed with six children, three of whom she brought into the world on a ranch in Mexico. During those early years, she often rode a horse to town with her children to buy necessities. In the 1960s, seeking new opportunities, Esther and Juan made the brave journey from Mexico to California, where she spent over 20 years working in the fisheries of Humboldt County. Her dedication and hard work were a testament to her unwavering spirit. Later the family grew with 14 grandchildren and two great-granddaughters, who carry forward her legacy of love and resilience.

In addition to her work in the fisheries, Esther held various jobs throughout her life, including working in different restaurants, housekeeping,caregiving and traveling to Stockton to work the fields with her family. Her resilience and work ethic were evident in everything she did, always striving to provide for her family.

Esther and Juan pursued their dream by opening a small Mexican restaurant, Acapulco, in Arcata. There, she delighted the community with her amazing cooking, sharing the rich flavors of her heritage and bringing people together through her culinary talents.

Esther was not only an incredible cook but also a loving wife, sister, mother, and grandmother. One of her most cherished traditions was teaching her grandchildren how to make her delicious tortillas. Her warmth, wisdom, and support touched the lives of all who knew her. She had an innate ability to make everyone feel special, and her home was always welcoming, filled with laughter, love and delicious food.

Esther is preceded in death by her parents Octavio and Concepcion Solorio; husband Juan Rodriguez; grandson Jesse Rodriguez. She is survived by her children Ramon Rodriguez, Concepcion (Ron) Hernandez, Gustavo (Guadalupe) Rodriguez, Johnny (Sara) Rodriguez, Joaquin (Sheri) Rodriguez, Jose (Lea) Rodriguez; grandchildren Erica (Juan) Mendez, Monica Hernandez, Veronica Rodriguez, Anthony Rodriguez, Hunter Ocker, Ariana Rodriguez, Destiny Rodriguez, Natalie Rodriguez,Alex Rodriguez, Cecilia Rodriguez, Preslee Rodriguez, Cruz Rodriguez; great granddaughters Sophia Mendez and Jasmine Mendez.

She will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her spirit will live on in the hearts of those she loved. Esther leaves behind a legacy of love, hard work, perseverance and devotion that will forever inspire her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A rosary will be held October 11 from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Goble’s Mortuary in Fortuna

Mass will be held October 12 at 11 a.m. at Sacred Heart in Eureka followed by burial at Sunset Memorial Cemetery in Eureka.

Reception to follow 1 p.m. at the Lost Coast Brewery Event room — 1600 Sunset Drive, Eureka

Rest in peace, dear Esther. You will always be in our hearts.

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The obituary above was submitted on behalf of Esther Rodriguez’s loved ones. The Lost Coast Outpost runs obituaries of Humboldt County residents at no charge. See guidelines here. Email news@lostcoastoutpost.com.