Eugene "Geno" Rodella Obituary

In Remembrance and Loving Memory of Eugene Daniel Rodella

Eugene Daniel Rodella, 55, of Cebolla, NM, passed away peacefully on May 11, 2025, surrounded by family and loved ones. He was a cherished son, father, partner, grandfather, brother, and friend, and a gift to his mother this Mother’s Day as they reunited in spirit.

Born on September 22, 1969, in Española, NM, Eugene was the beloved son of Maria (Tita) Valdez-Herrera and Roberto Oliveros Rodella. He grew up in Tierra Amarilla, where he learned the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance. Eugene graduated from Escalante High School and went on to serve 22 years in the United States Army and National Guard, including a deployment to Iraq in 2003. After his military service, he retired from the City of Española Police Department with 21 years of dedicated service. During his career, he earned two honorable Presidential Fitness Awards, reflecting his commitment to excellence and service.

Eugene, affectionately known as "Geno," was a remarkable man known for his unwavering work ethic, loyalty, and generosity. He had a passion for the outdoors, including fishing (especially at trout lakes), hunting, camping, side-by-side rides, traveling, and foraging. He loved sharing stories from his life, filled with unforgettable adventures and lessons. Known as a “jack of all trades,” Geno took pride in solving problems, fixing things, and supporting those around him. He had a gift for making people laugh and was the biggest kid at heart, always finding joy in every moment.

Geno had a deep love for his dogs, Scooter and Sheba, who were his loyal adventure partners. He cherished listening to the local radio station KDCE, which brought him comfort and connection to his community.

Eugene was preceded in death by his beloved mother, Maria Valdez-Herrera. 

He was survived by his father Roberto Rodella; loving partner, Rayven Padilla (Diamond); his daughter, Regina Rodella; his son, Eugene Rodella Jr. (Destiny); his granddaughter, Ashtra Daisy Alicia Rodella; his brothers, Thomas Rodella Sr., Ronald Rodella (Tracy), and Gabriel Rodella (Audrey); his stepsisters, Rebecca Quintana (Mark) and Tanya Gallegos (Gary); and many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends.

A Rosary will be held at 6:00 PM on Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at DeVargas Funeral Home in Espanola, NM. A Mass will be celebrated on Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Cebolla Santo Nino de Atocha Church, with burial to follow at the Santa Fe National Cemetery.

A reception will follow at the Cities of Gold Hotel, where family and friends are welcome to share stories and Celebrate Geno’s Life.

Serving as Pallbearers will be Eugene Rodella Jr. (Honorary Pallbearer), Thomas Rodella Jr., Ronald Rodella, Gabriel Rodella, Eloy Martinez, Vince Crespin, Marvyn Jaramillo, Felipe Atencio, and Thomas Rodella Sr.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to The Wounded Warrior Project or the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Raymond G. Murphy VA Medical Center, Richmond VA Medical Center, and VCU Health for their compassionate care and unwavering support throughout Geno’s journey.

Geno will be forever remembered for his witty humor, resilience, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his loved ones. He leaves behind a legacy of service, loyalty, and love that will continue to inspire all who knew him. "He will be forever loved, honored, and missed.

The family of Eugene Rodella has entrusted the care of their loved one to DeVargas Funeral Home & Crematory of the beautiful Espanola Valley. 505-747-7477