JAVIER RODRIGUEZ

Javier Arturo Rodriguez Melendez was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico on July 6th,1992 to Jose Javier Rodriguez Soto and Ada Enid Melendez Torres. Javier was affectionately called Javi. He was the last of three children and the only boy in the family so naturally he was well taken care of by his big sisters Janid and Jadiris Rodriguez. When Javier was 2 years old the family decided to move stateside to Cleveland, Ohio where Javier and his siblings grew up. 
 

Javier attended Metro Catholic Parish School and during his elementary years he was also a member of the Cleveland Boys Choir and played basketball. Javier attended High School at Cleveland Central Catholic and James Fordes Rhodes, where he brightened up the room with his positive attitude and infectious smile. Upon graduating from Rhodes in 2010, Javier began his apprenticeship through Cleveland Public Power where he became passionate for the Lineman brotherhood. In 2015, he won a first place award for Hurtman Rescue, which showcased his climbing and rescue abilities. Javier often participated in Lineman rodeos displaying his talent as a well trained and skilled Journeyman Lineman. During his 12 year career he often responded to hurricane and storm calls to restore power and bring life back to normal for thousands of people in need across America, and places like his home island Puerto Rico after the devastating damages due to Hurricane Maria. Javier was a member of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Chapter 71#. He was a true leader, mentor, and always inspiring others.

On December 24, 2017, Javier’s world was completely changed with the birth of his first born Natalia Mia. Estella Luna made his life complete with her arrival on July 7, 2022. Being a dad was his most prideful accomplishment. He was an excellent father. 

Javier is survived by his love Kenia, daughters Natalia and Estella, parents Javier and Ada, sisters Janid and Jadiris, nieces Isabella, Ariella and Gabriella and a host of family and friends. Javier will be remembered for being the ultimate unifier for family and friends, across generations, countries, and for his hilarious sense of humor, his love and commitment to his daughters and his incredible work ethic. He was adventurous, loved the outdoors, traveling, dancing, and his Puerto Rican food. The world will never be the same without #javrod. 

Donations to Javier's children are welcome in lieu of flowers.

A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 at 7:30 PM with the family receiving friends from 3 - 7:30 PM at THE A. RIPEPI AND SONS FUNERAL HOME, 18149 BAGLEY ROAD, MIDDLEBURG HEIGHTS, OHIO 44130 (WEST of I-71). Burial will take place Friday, August 12, 2022 at Holy Cross Cemetery at 2:00PM. Please meet at the cemetery entrance at 1:30PM.

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.