Fabian Rodriguez, age 73, died on March 9, 2019, in Sunnyside, NY, surrounded by family. Fabian was born Dec. 8, 1945 in Gilman, Colorado to Fabian and Della (Lujan) Rodriguez, and is the second of ten children, all who share many fond memories of growing up in a big family and the adventures of living in such a small town. Fabian graduated from Battle Mountain High School in 1964 and in 1968 was drafted into the Army where he was a supply clerk. After the Army, he lived in Denver and worked as a bartender for The Playboy Club. He lived in Los Angeles for a while and found his home in New York where he continued to bartend for numerous places including the Helmsley Hotel.
Fabian was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Elmer and Frank. He is survived by his siblings Ruby Medina, Anthony (Chella) Rodriguez, Cynthia (Terry) Hollingsworth, Donna (Albert) Sisneros, Maria Rodriguez and Steven Rodriguez, including numerous nephews, nieces and great nephews/nieces. Throughout his life he made many friends, who fell in love with his humor and giving heart. He was direct and sometimes off the wall, but he was relatable and cared deeply to those close to him. His trips back to Colorado were some of the best memories of him with his family. Everyone got excited when he would come to visit. They made his favorite foods from home, and caught up on each others lives, laughing and sharing good times. It wasn’t long before many of his family members got to visit him in New York. He lived in a little studio in midtown and treated us like kings and queens while visiting him and made sure the red carpet was rolled out for us. He took us to the finest restaurants (Windows of the world) numerous Broadway plays (Beautiful, Jersey Boys, Dear Evan Hansen), and even giving up his bed so others were comfortable. He was loved dearly by his family and friends and will be deeply missed.
The family would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers during this time and appreciate his friends in New York who were there through the good and hard times. You were his family here and will continue to be a part of our family. We appreciate your condolences and stories of Fabian.