Dolores Rodriguez

Dolores “Lola” Rodriguez Dolores “Lola” Rodriguez, 91, of Crookston, Minnesota, died peacefully on December 9, 2024, at her daughter and son-in-law’s Euclid home, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 23, 1933, in Dolores, TX, Lola was known for her strong Catholic faith, beloved cooking, and unconditional love. Lola grew up in a humble home in Laredo, TX, the daughter of Genaro and Lorenza Rodriguez. Her early years were defined by hardships, including the Great Depression and her mother losing her eyesight when Lola was six. Guided by her mother’s voice and a small stool built by her father, Lola learned to cook, perfecting dishes like migas and papas con huevos, which became symbols of her care for others.

At 16, while at a dance, Lola spotted a well-dressed young man who’s dance moves caught everyone’s attention- Alfonso “Poncho” Rodriguez. The two quickly fell in love, married, and raised five children while navigating many challenges together, migrating between Texas and Minnesota for seasonal farm work. In 1962, they relocated to Crookston, where they lived together until Poncho’s passing in 1993.

Lola’s home was her sanctuary, and her kitchen was its heart. Known for her delicious meals, she brought her family together with warmth and love. Whether serving after school hot chocolate to her niños or fresh pinto beans for visiting familia, Lola made sure no one left her home hungry. Lola filled many more bellies than just her family’s, working for 27 years at the University of Minnesota Crookston, where she fed countless students, and their appreciation brought her great joy.

Lola is survived by her five children, Sylvia Santos (Pedro) of Clifton, NJ, Tito Rodriguez of Wildwood, Florida, Francisco Rodriguez (Ceci) of Longmont, CO, Rosa Rodriguez (Efren Leon) of Woodbury, MN, and Ileanna Noyes (Dan), of Euclid, MN; her grandchildren, Alexandro Leon of Woodbury, MN, Adrian Leon of Woodbury, MN, Stephen Noyes (Marie) of Minneapolis, MN, Dakota Rodriguez of Longmont, CO, Joshua Noyes (Larissa) of Minot, ND, Alina Noyes (Justin Schill) of Grand Forks, ND, and Diego Rodriguez of Longmont, CO; and three great-grandchildren: Quinley, Rory, and Mika Noyes. She is also survived by siblings Maria Luisa, Genaro (Leonor), and Carmen; sister-in-law Belia Flores; and numerous loved ones who will miss her dearly.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Genaro and Lorenza; siblings Luis Rey, Santana, Paula, Simona, and Catalina; and beloved husband, Poncho.

A celebration of Lola’s life will be held on Saturday, December 14, at 10:30 AM at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Crookston, MN with a meal to follow and visitation one hour prior to service. A second service will be held in Laredo, TX through Hernandez Lopez Funeral Chapel with a burial service to follow. “Grandma” Lola will be remembered by all, and she lives on through the fideo, tamales, mole, tortillas, and chocolate cake her children and grandchildren continue to cook for others