Roderick Burton Nava, lifelong resident of Ventura, CA, died at home with his
family by his side on January 8, 2025 at the age of 86. He is predeceased by his
parents, Rod and Irma Nava, and his sister Patricia Hilton. He is survived by his
wife Janice of 58 years, his children, Eelen, Erinn(Phil), Rod and Andrew, his
grandchildren Lauren, Max, and Rod, his sisters Maxine Johnson and Andrea
Preston, and many nieces, nephews and extended family members for whom
he had great affection.
Rod was born on May 24, 1938 at Foster Memorial Hospital in Ventura. He
graduated from Ventura High School in 1956 and served in the Air Force from
1957-1961. Upon his return, he joined the fire department and was stationed in
Meiners Oaks. He received his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the
University of La Verne and began his 30 year long career as a supervisor for the
Ventura County Flood Control.
Rod was a wise, kind soul who loved his family deeply. He was a father figure to
many nieces, nephews, and family friends, who adored him for the love and
guidance he gave them. We could always count on him for sage advice, a
sympathetic ear, and his wonderful sense of humor. He enjoyed the simple
pleasures in life - reading, listening to music, and spending time with his family.
He was also an eloquent writer and storyteller. Rod was dependable, an
incredibly hard worker, and always took care of others. He enjoyed fishing, and
was an expert gardener. Some of our fondest memories with him include fishing
off the Ventura pier or in the surf at San Pedro Street, and tending the garden on
sunny summer days.
He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him. Details of
his celebration of life to follow.