Larry Rodrigue

May 15, 1941 - December 29, 2022

Resident of Alamo Larry passed away peacefully in his home, with his wife Karen by his side, after a brave battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Larry was born in Bayou Crab, Louisiana, where he lived with his parents and three sisters. In his early twenties, he made the journey to California to find his fortune, never forgetting his Cajun roots or love for white beans and rice.

In 1964, Larry married his first wife Jane, and subsequently had two children, Craig and Renee. Larry began his police career with the Alameda County Sheriff’s Department in 1965 and then joined the Oakland Police Department in 1966, where he began an illustrious career ultimately reaching the rank of Captain. Larry was the third watch Watch Commander during the 1989 Loma Prieta Earthquake and 1991 Oakland Firestorm. As described by a colleague, “His heart was always attached to his smile, and he couldn’t hide his mirth even when he was doing his most officious duties as a captain. All who worked and played with him, all who knew him, were impressed by his wholesome personality, friendly demeanor, and a sense that he was genuine.” These qualities remained with Larry throughout his journey with Alzheimer’s.

In 1992, Larry met Karen and they eventually married in 1994. He retired in 1995 to begin a life of leisure playing golf, traveling to Europe, and riding his Harley Davidson. Larry especially enjoyed his trip to London and Paris with Renee, and to Spain with Craig, John John, and Samuel. He enjoyed numerous road trips, including trips to the Police Memorial in Washington DC and Sturgis, South Dakota. Larry and Karen eventually bought a second home in South Lake Tahoe where his golf shots went an additional 25 yards and he could look out his back door to the beauty of the mountains. They truly enjoyed a wonderful and blessed life together.

Larry is predeceased by his parents Lorris and Alma Rodrigue, sister Sharon, brothers-in-law Merrick Hidalgo and William Parker.

Larry is survived by his devoted and loving wife of almost 29 years, Karen, daughter Renee (husband John Schofield), son Craig, grandchildren Devyn, John, Jackson, Rachel, Natalie, and Samuel; as well as former wife Jane, and sisters Ida Hidalgo, Karen Parker, and Cheryl Rodrigue. He also leaves behind his faithful pets Becca, Junior, and Freeway.

We will miss him dearly, but are grateful that he is free of pain and the insidious effects of Alzheimer’s. Karen is especially thankful that she was able to take care of him when he needed her most. The family would especially like to thank Maria Vita Guido, his primary daytime caregiver, for her attentiveness, friendship, humor, patience, caring, and love. Memorial service to be announced at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please donate to Larry’s favorite charities, The Nature Conservancy and The Sierra Foundation (Club) in Larry’s name.