From the moment he entered the world on June 8, 1994, in Nampa, Idaho, Gaspar Elias Molina Rodriguez, or JR, as most of us knew him, carried with him an old soul's wisdom and a heart that felt deeply. He saw people — really saw them — and had a warm, welcoming nature that made everyone feel instantly comfortable and cared for. Whether you were a lifelong friend or someone he'd just met, JR had a way of making you feel like you belonged.

At just 31 years old, on August 9, 2025, JR passed away peacefully in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by his loving family and friends. Though his years were too few, he filled them with a richness of connection, creativity, and kindness that will be felt for generations.

JR co-founded Buildstrong Construction with his "pops" William "Bill", a business born from his vision, skill, and relentless work ethic. He didn't just build structures — he built trust and friendships into every project he touched. Clients became friends, and friends became family, drawn in by his authenticity and the care he put into everything he did.

Music was the soundtrack of JR's life. His taste was eclectic and ever-changing — one moment a soulful blues track, the next a classic rock anthem, then a hidden gem from an indie artist. Music spoke to his curiosity and his open heart, and he loved sharing songs with others as a way of sharing himself.

JR also treasured the lifelong friendships he had built over the years — bonds that went beyond time and distance. These were friends who shared his sense of humor, the kind that could have everyone in stitches with a single glance or inside joke. They stood by him through every chapter of life, a testament to the loyalty and love he inspired in others.

Above all, JR's greatest joy was his wife, Talia. The two were married in December 2024 and were looking forward to their destination wedding in Cancun this coming September 2025. Their love was evident to all who knew them — they complimented one another perfectly, bringing out the best in each other. JR adored Talia with all his heart, cherishing every moment they spent together and building dreams for their future. Talia's parents also loved JR as if he were their own son.

Central to JR's journey was the unwavering love and support of his mom, Irma, his biggest cheerleader in life. She encouraged him to believe in himself and to follow his dreams, instilling in him the confidence and courage that would later define his life and his work. Her faith in him was a constant source of strength, and their bond was one of

his most treasured relationships. When JR was five years old, his dad, William "Bill", entered his life, taking on the role of father with care and devotion. He helped raise and guide JR as his own, offering the steady presence, wisdom, and love that shaped the man JR would become. JR also shared a lifelong, honest, and unfiltered bond with his brother, Joaquin — a relationship marked by moments of deep love and the occasional disagreement, but always an unshakable closeness. They stood together through every season of life, brothers not only by blood, but by choice. JR shared a special bond with his cousin Jeff, built on shared interests, humor, and a deep understanding of one another. Their connection was more than family; it was a friendship that reflected JR's ability to form meaningful, lasting relationships with those he felt a true kinship with.

JR was preceded in death by his biological father, Gaspar Rodriguez, whom he loved deeply; his maternal and paternal grandparents; and numerous uncles.

Those closest to JR knew him as a giver. He was generous not only with his time and talents but with his spirit. He listened without judgment, offered advice when needed, and could lighten a heavy moment with his easy laugh and thoughtful words. His presence was steady and grounding, yet full of light.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Talia Hayden Rodriguez; his mother Irma Molina-Ruby and William Ruby; his brother, Joaquin Ruby; step-brother and sister, William II and Hannah Ruby, numerous aunts and uncles, cousins and countless friends – with special mention to his closest friends: Drew, Evan, Leighton and Sarita.

Wednesday, August 20, 2025 from 5:00pm - 8:00pm

Viewing/Rosary/Buddhist Funeral Ritual

Nampa Funeral Home - 415 12th Ave S, Nampa, ID

Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 2:00pm

St. Paul's Catholic Church - 510 W Roosevelt Ave, Nampa, ID

Interment to follow immediately after mass

Kohlerlawn Cemetery – 76 6th St N, Nampa, ID

Though JR's time here was far too short, his kindness, wisdom, and love will ripple on in the hearts of all who knew him — a lasting testament to a life well-lived and deeply loved.