Rodolfo Contreras-Pulido

Rodolfo Contreras-Pulido, 62, of Waterloo, died Thursday, June 11, 2026, at MercyOne Waterloo Medical Center. He was born June 30, 1963, in Jalisco, Mexico, the son of Felipe Contreras and Maria Pulido. He attended Niños Héroes School in Epenche Grande, Municipio de Mazamitla, Jalisco, Mexico.

Rodolfo married Razija Zulic, the love of his life, who preceded him in death. Together they built a life rooted in love, sacrifice, and devotion. Though losing her left a wound that never fully healed, he carried her memory in his heart every single day. He spoke of her often, missed her deeply, and never stopped loving her. Their love was the kind that transcends time, and it brings comfort to those who loved him to know that they are finally reunited once again. Together they were blessed with one daughter, Esmeralda.

Rodolfo enjoyed cooking, watching soccer, listening to music, and spending time with those he loved. His happiest moments were often the simplest watching a soccer match, preparing a meal for family, listening to his favorite songs, and sharing stories with friends. He had a way of making people feel welcome, and his kindness and warmth left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

But of all the things Rodolfo loved in this world, nothing compared to the love he had for his daughter. Esmeralda was the center of his universe, his greatest accomplishment, and the person he was most proud of. Anyone who knew Rudy knew about his daughter, because he spoke of her every chance he got. Whether talking with family, friends, coworkers, or complete strangers, he would light up when her name was mentioned. He proudly shared her achievements, her dreams, and the person she had become. Being her father was not just a role he held it was his greatest joy and purpose in life.

Rodolfo’s love was steady, unconditional, and selfless. He sacrificed endlessly for those he cared about and always put his family before himself. He was a source of strength during difficult times, a comforting voice when life felt overwhelming, and a constant reminder that no matter what happened, family came first.

Those who knew him will remember his generous heart, his resilience, his sense of humor, and the way he loved so deeply. His absence leaves an unimaginable void in the lives of those who loved him. There are no words that can truly capture the pain of saying goodbye to a father, husband, and friend who meant so much to so many.

Though our hearts are shattered, we find peace in knowing that he is no longer suffering and that he is once again in the arms of the woman he loved and missed for so many years. His love, his laughter, and his memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

To his daughter, he was more than a father. He was a best friend, a protector, a teacher, and a safe place in a world that often felt uncertain. The love between them was immeasurable, and the loss of that presence leaves a pain that words cannot express. Yet even in death, his love remains-a guiding light that will never fade.

Dad, thank you for every sacrifice, every lesson, every hug, every conversation, and every moment you gave so freely. Thank you for loving so completely and so unconditionally. We will spend the rest of our lives missing you, loving you, and carrying your memory with us. Until we meet again, a part of our hearts will always belong to you.

Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday, June 16, 2026, at 10:30 AM at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Waterloo, with visitation for one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Memorials may be directed to the family.

“If love alone could have saved you, you would have lived forever.” ❤️