District 11 photo
[Note: The following department-wide email from Caltrans Director Tony Tavares was sent July 30.]
We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our beloved District 12 family members. Alexander (Alex) Rodish was a dedicated public servant, who took immense pride in his work. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and colleagues as we all mourn this wonderful man. The loss to our Caltrans District 12 family is profoundly felt by us all.
On the morning of July 22, 2024, in the course of his work on Interstate 5 in San Clemente, Alex was struck by a vehicle and killed. He is survived by his mother, sister and brother, brother in-law and two adult children.
Coming to Caltrans from our partner organization, Chrysalis, Alex, began his Caltrans career as a Service Assistant maintenance worker, through the Back 2 Work program in 2021. Alex was a hard worker who moved up the ranks, from a full-time Worker I in the Brea maintenance yard, to an Operator I, and to Equipment Operator II at the San Juan Capistrano maintenance yard. Alex embraced his work with Caltrans and recruited his brother to join the Caltrans family in District 7. Alex worked with Caltrans for three years.
In the days following this tragedy, five critical incident counseling sessions have been held for both field and office staff. However, grieving is a unique process that is different for each individual. If you find yourself needing additional tools and support, please refer to the attached Employee Assistance Program (EAP) resources.
To assist his family, a memorial fund has been established by our partner at the California Transportation Foundation (CTF).
Please visit the Alexander Rodish memorial fund web page to donate.
https://donorbox.org/alexander-rodish-memorial-fund
Your generosity and heartfelt condolences are sincerely appreciated.