The friends and family of Mission Beach resident Jose Rodriguez, 71, better known as “Bubba,” are holding a memorial service celebrating Rodriguez’s life, Saturday, Oct. 21, from 1 to 5 p.m., at the Mission Beach Woman’s Club, 840 Santa Clara Place.
“Bubba wasn’t really Jose’s nickname. He became known as Bubba because he called everyone else Bubba,” said Tom Saska from Saska’s Steak and Seafood.
The service will also include a video collage with photos and footage of Rodriguez’s life, with a soundtrack made up of songs from his music collection.
Rodriguez died in his Mission Beach home in August. According to Saska, many of Rodriguez’s friends either couldn’t attend the service or were not aware of his passing.
“This is a chance for all of his friends to show his family how much his friends care,” he said.
The memorial will give his friends and family the chance to reminisce Rodriguez’s joys and accomplishments, which include supporting San Diego sports ” from the Mission Bay High School Buccaneers up to the Chargers and Padres ” along fishing and traveling.
“He loved cooking. He had a giant, industrial stove that filled up his entire kitchen. He’d cook up these giant, delicious meals,” said friend Dr. Tom Cummings.
Although he loved to cook, Saska said he really loved going out for meals and visiting the neighborhood restaurants and bars, and the owners, managers and staff enjoyed having him visit.
“We even have a drink name after him,” said Dave Miller from Good Time Charlie’s. “It’s called a ‘Bubbarita.'”
Saska said Rodriguez was also very proud being a father and grandfather, along with his service as a Marine, work as a plumber and membership with the plumbers union.
Rodriguez is survived by his five children, Cynthia Ann (“Crystal”), Jose III, Theresa, Stephanie and Adrian, and his grandson, Nathan.
Cummings said a tip jar will be provided at the service, with all proceeds going to his grandson, a high school senior, for college tuition.
Food and beverages will be provided at the memorial. The service is hosted by Saska’s, The Coaster, Good Time Charlie’s, China Inn, The Open Bar and London’s West End.
For information or to make a contribution, call Cummings at (858) 220-9664.