Sergio Rodelo was born on January 2, 1979, to Domi Martinez and Saul Rodelo. He departed this world on December 31, 2025.
Although Sergio was raised in the Los Angeles area, he spent much of his childhood in Mexico, where he created lasting memories surrounded by his many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family. Those experiences shaped his strong sense of family, culture, and connection.
During his adolescence, Sergio moved to Lake Tahoe, where he found a true home and a deeply loved environment for most of his life. He graduated from South Lake Tahoe High School in 1997. After high school, he relocated to Southern California, where he built a life for several years before ultimately returning to Tahoe, where he spent the remainder of his life.
Sergio loved the essence of being a local in Tahoe and deeply appreciated all that the lake and mountains had to offer. He found peace and joy in nature, whether hiking scenic trails, golfing during the summer months, or snowboarding in the winter. An adventurous spirit, he especially loved challenging himself on the more difficult, riskier runs. His connection to the outdoors was a defining part of who he was.
A devoted Los Angeles sports fan, Sergio proudly supported his childhood hometown teams, especially the Dodgers, Lakers, and Rams. Win or lose, his loyalty never wavered.
Professionally, Sergio worked at Vail Resorts for nearly 20 years, where he built strong camaraderie with his colleagues, relationships that brought him great joy, laughter, lasting friendships, and a true sense of belonging. He was also a talented cook and took great pride in his kitchen skills. Sergio loved to barbecue and spent many years working as a cook at some of Tahoe’s most iconic destinations, including Edgewood and Heavenly.
He had a remarkable affinity for animals. His kind, gentle nature drew them to him, and animals instinctively trusted him and found comfort in his presence. One of the most profound examples of this bond was when he raised a wolf puppy into adolescence, releasing it when its call of the wild could no longer be denied. Sergio was never afraid; he felt a deep connection to nature and trusted destiny on a soul level, a bond forged between man and animal. He cared deeply for his pets and shared a special, enduring connection with them.
Sergio’s nature was sweet and compassionate. He was always gentle, a good listener, and someone who could find humor in any situation. He loved to laugh and had a natural gift for connecting with others through warmth and understanding. He held a strong faith in God and believed that everyone has a path, trusting that faith and purpose were essential to life.
Sergio will be missed dearly by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his dad, Saul, his two brothers, Saul and Leo; his sister-in-law; his nephew and nieces; his many cousins; aunts and uncles; numerous friends; and his beloved dog, Max.