Kari Kruesi
Roger Michael “Mike” Roddy, 77 of Long Beach, CA passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by his family on April 26, 2022, after a brief illness. Born in Minneapolis, MN to Roger William Roddy and Shirley Jean Panchot Roddy, on December 14, 1944, Mike was the oldest of five children. At a young age the family relocated to San Diego where Mike cherished growing up in the community of Point Loma. After high school, at the tender age of 17, Mike joined the US Marine Corps and proudly served his country.
Mike spent the past 35 years working in construction labor relations beginning with Kasler Corp, then Morrison Knudsen, Washington Group International and most recently, Southern California Contractors Association (SCCA) since 2009. As SCCA’s Labor Director, Mike continued to work for equality and fairness that promoted diversity and growth, simply because it was the right thing to do. A strategic thinker and industry mentor, Mike was well regarded as someone who could turn an old school handshake into a lifelong relationship.
Always one to selflessly give his time and knowledge for the betterment of those in underrepresented and underserved communities, Mike served on the board and as a trustee of many associations, community organizations, and labor management trusts including the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF); the Operating Engineers; Laborers, Teamsters, and Cement Masons; as well as the Laborers-Employers Cooperation and Education Trust-Southwest.
Witty, sarcastic, intelligent, proud, hardworking (some would say workaholic), direct, energetic, big-hearted, generous, a straight shooter, a bit of a buster, and loyal are just some of the words used to describe Mike.
He was a fan of good tequila and Chivas Regal, Mexico, Haagen Dazs ice cream, solitaire, traveling the world, Brussels sprouts, liver & onions, but definitely not tomato soup!
Mike was a fan of all sports, but remained loyal to his San Diego sports teams, especially the San Diego Padres and San Diego (!) Chargers. His love of fishing began in the water off Point Loma and his affection for the ocean continued as he looked forward to his annual fishing trip to Alaska with dear friends.
He loved his family fiercely. With support, encouragement, and guidance, he was a gift to them throughout their lives.
Mike’s children and grandchildren were the most important part of his life. From coaching his children’s youth baseball teams, to cheering at water polo tournaments, playing wiffle ball during family camping trips, and traveling great distances for family celebrations, Mike never missed an opportunity to tell them he loved them. Daddy/Pops/Grandpa/Papa left an impression on their hearts that will simply never fade.
Mike is survived by his children, Kari (John) Roddy Kruesi, Derrick (Emma) Roddy, and Taryn Roddy, as well as his grandchildren, Katie and Julia Kruesi; Kristopher Kaiser, Olivia, Lillyan, Mason; and Sydney Roddy. He is also survived by his sisters, Catherine Clark and Jill Roddy Gordon and forever friends he considered family. He was preceded in death by his parents, as well as his brothers, James Patrick and Timothy Roddy. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Mexican American Opportunity Foundation (MAOF) and the Alaska Raptor Center.
A celebration of life for Mike will be held in the summer. Details will be shared once finalized. All are welcome. Please feel free to share a memory of or story about Mike.
