Obituary of Rodrigo Serna

Rodrigo Serna succumbed to colon cancer on Friday, September 15, 2023. He was preceded in death by his mother Maria Escamilla Serna, father Toribio Serna, and siblings: Lorenzo Serna, Luciano Serna, and Ruben Serna. He is survived by his siblings: Leonardo Serna, Leonel Serna, Reynaldo Serna, Rogelio "Roy" Serna, Maria Elena Lopez, Toribio Serna Jr., and Refugio Serna. He was a son, a brother, and an uncle. He was the youngest of 11 children, born to Maria Escamilla and Toribio Serna. Prior to his birth, his mother slipped on ice, landing directly on where his head was. He was born with fluid in his brain, leaving him differently- abled. Rodrigo was a strong man, both physically and mentally. Displaying every bit of the Serna mindset, even though he grew up away from his family. By age 11 he was so spirited, full of energy and desire to explore and run. So much so that his mother Maria, a single parent raising 11 children by herself, had to relinquish him to Lakeland Village Cottages in Medical Lake where he lived the rest of his life. He was there for 49 years. He learned essential life functions and basic life skills. He loved crafting and also worked. He enriched many lives while living at Lakeland Village. Some things shared of him were that he was an inspiration of strength and courage. He wanted to live. He was given 2 months to live and survived for more than 10 months. He loved life. He was a man of few words but he dubbed himself Cece, as his nickname. He never liked to be touched, but when his family would visit, he always remembered his mother and sister. On one occasion he even held his niece's hand on one of his family visits. Toward the end, he started reaching out for touch from those around him, those he knew. Seeking hand holding and hugs. He found comfort in a family photo taken back in 2010 of him, his mother, sister and a few of his brothers. He spent the last of his days in the building he lived most of his life. The Serna family is very grateful for all those who worked with him, cared for him, and are with those who mourn his passing. Sincerely grateful to Angela Fabrizio, a Lakeland Village building manager for 20 years for Rodrigo Serna, and to all those who worked with him, cared for him, and called him friend over the course of his life.