Daniel "Lito" Rodriguez Jr.

Daniel “Lito” Rodríguez Jr. lived a life that was vibrant and full of joy. Born on April 1, 1990, in Newark, Delaware, at Christiana Hospital to Carmen and Daniel Rodríguez Sr., Lito brought boundless energy into the world from the moment he arrived. As an older brother to Alexander Rodríguez, he shared a bond that was deeper than love and admiration. Lito graduated from Newark High School in 2008, and while he pursued various jobs throughout his life, his dream was always bigger. With the help of his father, Daniel Sr. they made a dream into a reality by founding DR Transport Inc. Alongside his father they wanted to create a future for their family. Daniel Sr never doubted and always supported Lito in his venture to create his purpose. Lito loved having family gatherings and the thought of turning this dream into a family business was something that he was always proud to mention. With his brother as the dedicated in-house mechanic, and Lito as the Vice President of DR Transport Inc., their ambition and work ethic were unmatched. Lito’s determination and resilience were embedded in him by his father, since his early years. Even when his health began to deteriorate due to his ongoing battle with kidney disease, he remained steadfast, working tirelessly through dialysis treatments, pain, and sleepless nights. Lito and his father were determined to create a legacy of financial freedom. They never wavered in their belief that they could provide not just for their family but for their employees as well. Lito’s tenacity in the business was supported by his father and his brother Alexander and they are continuing to uphold it and will continue just as Lito would have wanted. Yet Lito was much more than his work. His true joy came from the people he loved. His laughter filled every room he entered, and his stories—no matter how simple—were always larger than life. A day with Lito was never just another day; he made the ordinary extraordinary with his humor, his animation, and his zest for life. He cherished his close friends, especially his TZT Family, who were like brothers and sisters to him. Together, they shared dreams, adventures, and an unbreakable bond. Lito’s presence was magnetic, inspiring everyone around him to dream bigger and live bolder. A passionate gamer, Lito spent hours playing his favorite games, Zelda, Kingdom Hearts, and Final Fantasy VII, but his love for adventure extended far beyond the virtual world. He loved to go to car and motorcycle shows with his father. He attended race car competitions with him and his brother as well and would often ride together when they were not working. Twice, he rode his motorcycle across the country to California and back to Delaware, embodying the fearless spirit that defined his life. Lito was always on the move, but his heart was firmly rooted in the people he held dear. At family gatherings, he was the life of the party, especially when his favorite song, “Conga” by Gloria Estefan, came on. If his extended family wasn’t nearby, he’d grab his mother for a spin on the dance floor or dance alone with the same enthusiasm. His love for music and dancing came from his parents, and he carried that joy into every celebration. Perhaps one of many cherished relationships was with his goddaughter, Violet Naicker. From the moment of her birth, Lito embraced his role as godfather with the same dedication he showed in all areas of his life. He was always there for her, showing up in ways that only Lito could—full of excitement, love, and unwavering support. One of his great aspirations was to be married and have a family of his own and in his final act of selflessness, he gave life to others by being an organ donor. In those final hours, his spirit and gift would help better the lives of others. Daniel “Lito” Rodriguez Jr., is survived by his parents, Daniel Sr. and Carmen Rodriguez; his brother, Alexander Rodriguez; and various aunts, uncles, and grandparents. His family takes solace in the words of Psalm 91: “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.” Lito has found rest now, free from pain and full of peace in God’s embrace. Psalm 123 further comforts his loved ones: “We lift up our eyes to you, to you whose throne is in heaven.” Lito’s family knows that he is now watching over them from above, just as they hold him in their hearts. A visitation will be held Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 5-7 PM at Strano & Feeley Family Funeral Home, 635 Churchmans Rd., Newark, DE 19702 followed by a celebration of Lito’s life at 7 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor Lito’s memory by finding joy in life’s moments, big or small, just as he always did. For directions or to send an online condolence, visit www.stranofeeley.com.

Daniel "Lito" Rodriguez Jr.

April 1, 1990 - October 4, 2024

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