Paula Jean Heinze Rodriguez, 76, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 1, 2024, surrounded by her loving family. A graveside committal service will be held at 1:00 PM Saturday, November 9th at Memory Gardens Cemetery near Valley City. An online guestbook is available at www.lerudmathias.com. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, kindness, and dedication that has deeply affected all who knew her.
Born on October 16, 1947, in New Rockford, ND, Paula was the daughter of Wayne R. Twamley and Lillian A. Smith. She attended public schools in New Rockford until 1959, when her family moved to Valley City, ND. Paula met her first husband, James (Jim) Heinze, and they were married on September 5, 1964, at St. Bernard’s Catholic Church in Oriska, ND.
As a devoted mother, Paula wholeheartedly dedicated herself to raising her three children—Amy, Shannon, and Jimie Jean—along with many foster children. She was their greatest supporter, always encouraging them to chase their dreams and pursue their passions.
Paula was a passionate teacher and librarian who made a lasting impact on countless students, igniting their love for learning. She impacted students in the cities of New Salem, Pingree-Buchanon, ND, Shanley High School and Centennial Elementary School in Fargo, ND. Paula retired in 2012.
In 2016, she moved to Phoenix, where she met her second husband, Manuel (Manny) Rodriguez. Their bond was immediate, and they shared a profound love. Paula and Manny were married on March 29, 2023, at the ASU Gardens. Together they enjoyed watching Diamondbacks games, dancing, eating at their favorite spots and a good glass of wine. Paula also started to master cooking authentic Mexican cuisine. Throughout her illness, Manny was an extraordinary caretaker, providing unwavering love and support.
Paula’s warmth, infectious smile, and nurturing spirit created a home filled with love and joy. She had a unique ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued, and her friends often felt like family. Her involvement in various clubs, including Topps, Bowling, and Eagles 2192, brought her immense happiness and allowed her to connect with others who shared her interests.
In Paulas’ past time she also enjoyed playing a good game of pinochle or bridge, bingo, quilting and reading. She generously volunteered her time and talents to various causes, spreading kindness wherever she went—her selflessness a true reflection of her character.
Paula’s love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren was immense, bringing her boundless joy. She cherished every moment spent sharing stories from her childhood, playing games, reading books, making videos, hosting tea parties, and attending their sporting events and activities. A constant source of wisdom and guidance, Paula’s affection for her grandchildren was truly limitless.
Paula is survived by her beloved husband, Manny Rodriguez, of Phoenix, AZ; her three children: Amy (Michael) Schrader of Peoria, AZ; Shannon (Heather) Heinze of Armada, MI; and Jimie Jean (Dwayne) Miraldi of West Fargo, ND; stepdaughter Miranda Cardenas of Phoenix, AZ; grandchildren Jared Olson, Ashlee Tucker, Amanda Payne, Andrew Peters, James Heinze, Derrick Miraldi, and Jenessa Miraldi; step grandsons Orlando (Cruz) Cardenas, Lorenzo Cardenas, and Daniel Schrader; step granddaughters Emily Stephenson and Anna Schrader; and eight great-grandchildren. Paula also maintained a special bond with her former foster daughter, Karen Peters of Oakes, ND.