Filomeno C. Rodriguez, 92, passed away Monday, March 25, 2019 in Byron, Illinois at Generations at Neighbors with family and friends by his side. Phil was born on July 5, 1926 to Celso and Joaquina (Chavira) Rodriguez in Donna, Texas.  He proudly served with the United States Navy, was a survivor of the Battle of Iwo Jima during World War II and received a purple heart after being wounded during this battle.  He married the love of his life, Maria Belen Hernandez, on December 19, 1948 in Donna, Texas; she preceded him in death on August 10, 1998.  Phil and Belen began their family in Donna, TX and moved to Northern Illinois in 1967.  Phil worked for Stokely Van Camp and Eaton's Corporation where he retired in 1992.  He was a devoted member of St. Patrick Catholic Church and VFW Post 3878.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by three brothers: Benigno, Manuel and Timoteo and three sisters: Lucia Rodriguez, Maria Guerrero and Otila Lopez.

Phil is survived by two sons: George (Ruby) Rodriguez of San Antonio, TX and Filomeno (Tracey) Rodriguez of Plano, IA; three daughters: Jackie (Bill Vick) Reed of Oak Creek, WI; Cristela (Leo) Wahl of Round Rock, TX and Patsy (Greg) Larson of Plymouth, MN; sister, Rosa Vela of Corpus Christi, TX and 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Phil will be forever remembered for his love of life, sense of humor, his dedication and love for his family, his strong faith and compassion, and the way he brought sunshine and smiles as he passed through a room.

The family extends their gratitude to all at Generations at Neighbors who cared for Phil and made him a part of their family this past year.  They will forever be seen as angels to the family.

The visitation will be from 4:00 - 7:00 P.M., Friday, March 29, 2019 with a Rosary Service at 7:00 pm at the Unger-Horner Funeral Home, 400 N. 6th St., Rochelle.  Funeral service will be held at 10:00 A.M., Saturday, March 30 at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 236 Kelley Drive, Rochelle.  Burial will follow at St. Patrick Cemetery in Rochelle.  Memorials may be made in Phil's memory to St. Patrick Catholic Church or VFW Post 3878.  Visit www.ungerhorner.com to sign the online guest book.