John Rodriguez, 78, passed away November 29, 2016 at St. Francis Via Christi Hospital in Wichita, Kansas. The son of Joseph and Jessie Rodriguez, he was born in Ellsworth, Kansas on August 15, 1938. He was a retired educator, and photo journalist for Colby, Kansas Tribune, and Delta, Colorado Independent.

Prior to moving to Hutchinson, he taught journalism and Spanish at Colby Community College. He later served as principal for both Sherman Junior High School and St. Teresa''s catholic school in Hutchinson, and also served as principal for St. Xavier''s catholic school in Junction City. In addition to his leadership duties he served as basketball coach for Our Lady of Guadalupe''s team that participated in the Mexican - American Tournament, and, was the cross country coach in Delta, Colorado. He was responsible for starting the cross country team at Trinity High School in Hutchinson, Kansas. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, a member of the Holy Name Society, and a member of the Knights of Columbus in South Hutchinson, Kansas. He also belonged to the VFW.

He married Eugenia E. Flores, June 13, 1963 in Colby, Kansas. She survives. Other survivors include 2 sons, John Michael (Vera), Christopher Thomas (Sammy); 2 daughters, Lisa ReaNea (Miguel) Martinez, Amanda Emily Garcia; 2 brothers; 3 sisters; 8 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, 4 brothers, 1 sister, and, 1 grandson.

A gathering for friends will be held Thursday, December 8, 2016 from 4:30 pm - 8:30 pm with a rosary to be held at 7:30 pm at Old Mission - Heritage Funeral Home, 528 N. Main, Hutchinson, Kansas. A life celebration mass will be Friday, December 9, 2016 at 10:30 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, South Hutchinson, Kansas with Father Ned Blick presiding. Interment to follow at Memorial Park Cemetery, Hutchinson, Kansas.