Emilio "Curly" Ferreira Rodriguez Sr. was born September 6th, 1932. He was 91 years old when he peacefully passed away on January 4th, 2024.

He grew up in Ajo Arizona which he jokingly referred to as Garlic City. In 1947 at the young age of 14 he traveled to Tucson Arizona to learn the trade of masonry. He became a bricklayer with exceptional skills. He worked for a masonry union that sent him to work all over the country. He was also involved in many projects in the City of Tucson such as the building of Sabino High School, the library at John Spring Middle School, Tucson High School, the computer building, and the law commons at the University of Arizona. He worked on the renovation of a historical landmark in downtown Tucson, formerly known as Valley National Bank.

In August of 1951 he was married to Evelyn Benitez. They resided in Barrio Hollywood of Tucson AZ, where they raised their 10 children. They were married over 60 years when Evelyn passed away in 2012.

He enjoyed traveling the countryside and abroad, hunting, camping at his favorite place Happy Valley, and especially loved cookouts with his family. He was not a man of many words but his deep love for the family was known. He was a strong patriarch of his family and a great provider.  He was always a hardworking man and many will remember him as a man of strength and pride.

He is survived by his 10 children Emilio Jr. (Barbara), David (Connie), Priscilla, Oscar (Sylvia), Luis (Sylvia), Anthony (Yolanda), Micheal (Angie), Steven, Sr., Brenda (Jim), Sandra, and his nephew whom he also considered a son Martin Rodriguez. In addition, he leaves behind 37 grandchildren, 95 great grandchildren, and 21 great-great grandchildren.

He will be dearly missed, his memory will be cherished, and his legacy of love and strength will continue to live on.