Natalie was born on April 19, 1956, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, to Benjamin Rodriguez II and Carmen Briones Rodriguez. She attended Roosevelt Elementary School and Scottsbluff High School before moving to Lincoln, Nebraska, in 1989, where she continued to build a life rooted in family, community, and service.
Natalie embraced life with joy and an open heart. She loved to dance, cook, travel, read, meet new people, and bring family and friends together. She had a rare gift for making everyone feel welcome and loved. Her laughter was contagious, her smile unforgettable, and wherever she went, she filled the room with warmth, kindness, and happiness. She wasn’t just the life of the party—she was the heart of it.
She was deeply committed to her community and proudly supported the Latino communities of both Scottsbluff and Lincoln. Through her involvement with Latino Vote and other community efforts, she believed in lifting others up and making a difference wherever she could.
Above all, Natalie cherished her family. She is lovingly survived by her husband, David Machado; her children, Adrian Martinez, Leticia Meitzen (Edward Meitzen), and Julian Martinez II; and her treasured grandchildren, Carmen Martinez, Angelo Martinez, Alonzo Martinez, Orianna Martinez, Xander Meitzen, Analise Meitzen, and Aiden Meitzen.
She is also survived by her siblings, Cynthia Rodriguez; Benjamin Rodriguez III (Juanita Rodriguez); SallyAnn Guzman (Neighbor Guzman); and Sandra Rodriguez, along with many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends whose lives she touched with her unwavering love and encouragement.
Natalie was preceded in death by her father, Benjamin Rodriguez II; her mother, Carmen Briones Rodriguez; her baby brother, Gabriel Rodriguez; her Aunt Sally Dittmare; and her grandmother, Maria Briones.
Though our hearts are broken, we are forever grateful for the love, laughter, and memories Natalie gave us. Her legacy lives on in every family gathering, every shared meal, every joyful celebration, and every act of kindness inspired by her example. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
Services:
Viewing Friday, July 10, 2026 | 5:00–7:00 p.m. Roper & Sons Funeral Services 4300 O Street, Lincoln, NE 68510
Rosary & Funeral Mass Saturday, July 11, 2026 Rosary: 10:30 a.m. Funeral Mass: 11:00 a.m. North American Martyrs Catholic Church 1101 Isaac Drive, Lincoln, NE
Celebration of Life Saturday, July 11, 2026 | 3:00–9:00 p.m. Bodega’s Alley 1418 O Street, Lincoln, NE 68508
Natalie taught us that life is meant to be celebrated, that family is life’s greatest blessing, and that love should always be shared freely. While we grieve her absence, we are forever grateful for the countless beautiful memories she gave us. Her legacy will live on in every dance, every family gathering, every act of kindness, and every heart she touched.
“Your life was a blessing, your memory a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”