Rodolfo "Fito" Cadena

Rodolfo Cadena passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on March 13, 2025, in Kingsville, Texas. He was born on May 23, 1960, in Alice, Texas, to his parents, Josa Ignacio and Julia Cadena. Rodolfo was a man of great integrity and warmth whose presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew him.

Rodolfo, affectionately known as Fito, grew up in a large, humble, and loving family where the values of hard work, respect, honesty, and kindness were instilled and practiced.

Fito received his education in the Ben Bolt-Palito Blanco School District. He then worked the farm helping his parents on the ranch. Fito and his brothers loved swimming in the creek after walking almost three miles to get to school. It was one of their favorite pastimes.

Fito was a self-taught man who loved drawing beautiful pictures of nature, animals, or whatever he envisioned. This is how he started his career as a craftsman; designing many plans for kitchen cabinets, bathrooms, and house designs.

Fito’s career as a farmer and a carpenter was characterized by his diligence and reliability. His work was a reflection of his character: punctual, honest, respectful, humble, and kind. Rodolfo was the epitome of a hardworking man who took pride in his labor and the fruits it bore.

Beyond his professional life, Rodolfo, also known as Rudy, enjoyed listening to music, hunting, barbecuing, and family gatherings. He had a wonderful sense of humor and was known to bring joyfully laughter to all from his jokes, or sharing stories of the simple pleasures of life. These moments were a true reflection of Fito’s character: thoughtful, selfless, and ever mindful of the happiness of others.

Those who knew Fito would describe him as handy—a trait that was evident in everything he touched. His thoughtfulness extended beyond his immediate circle, as he was always ready to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. His selflessness was a quiet force, never seeking recognition but always felt by those who were fortunate enough to experience his kindness.

As we bid farewell to Rodolfo “Fito” Cadena, we celebrate a life lived with honor and a heart that knew no bounds. His legacy is one of love, dedication, and the tireless pursuit of making the world a better place; one act of kindness at a time. Rodolfo's memory will live on, not only in the projects he completed and the homes he helped build but also in the hearts of those he touched with his generosity and spirit.

Fito was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Leonicia Cadena; his parents, Jose Ignacio and Julia Cadena; his brothers, Jesus Maria Cadena, Felix Cadena, Thomas Maria (Yolanda) Cadena, and Jose (Aurora) Cadena Jr.; and his brother in-law, Faustino Rodriguez Sr.

Fito is lovingly remembered by his surviving siblings, David Cadena, Ernesto (Katherine) Cadena, Carlos (Gloria) Cadena, Juan (Venessa) Cadena, Michael (Zulema) Cadena, and Sofia Rodriguez; his best friend, Thomas Longoria; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

Fito’s family will receive condolences on Monday, April 7, 2025, at Treviño Funeral Home Alice, 120 E. Front St., from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM, with Prayer Service to begin at 12:00 PM. A funeral cortege will depart the funeral home at 1:30 PM for Rite of Committal and Interment at Las Almas Cemetery in Ben Bolt, Texas.

Honoring Rodolfo as pallbearers are Tommy Longoria, Joel Guzman, J.M. Guzman, David Cadena Jr., Albert Hernandez, Andy Elliot Cadena, Robert Perez and Marcos Guzman. Honorary pallbearers Faustino Rodriguez, III, Juan Cadena, Michael Cadena, Carlos Cadena, David Cadena and Ernesto Cadena.

To leave your condolences for the family of Rodolfo “Fito” Cadena, share your memories, or visit his tribute wall, please go to www.trevinofuneralhome.net.