Nelson Rojas

A message from the Rojas Family  --  We invite you to post your messages, thoughts, and photos in Nelson's Guestbook or light a candle on his behalf. We know that he would love to hear from you!               

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of Nelson Nolasco Rojas, beloved Spanish teacher, world traveler, and passionate advocate for education. Nelson dedicated over 20 years of his life to teaching Spanish, inspiring thousands of students with his enthusiasm for teaching. His vibrant energy, deep care for each student, and genuine interest in their growth were unmatched, leaving an indelible mark on all who crossed his path. Throughout his career, he received over 1,000 thank-you letters from grateful students, parents, and co-workers which was a testament to his profound impact.

Beyond the classroom, Nelson’s thirst for adventure stemmed from his days as a student in the Study Abroad program at Pepperdine University. As a lifelong traveler and having visited over 70 countries, he was always eager to learn and embrace new cultures to expand his outlook. His travels not only enriched his own life but also informed his teaching, as he shared stories and lessons from around the world, offering students a window into diverse cultures and perspectives. From the Great Wall of China, the monument statues of Easter Island, the bullfighting rings in Spain, and the pyramids of Egypt, his love for exploration was matched only by his deep commitment to giving back. For many years, Nelson devoted his time to volunteering in orphanages, providing mentorship and support to children in need.

Nelson will be remembered not only for his extraordinary teaching, caring nature and belief in the power of service to others, but also for the joy he brought into every room he entered. His students often described his classes as transformational, where learning Spanish wasn’t just about grammar or vocabulary—it was about discovering a new world, embracing passion, and finding excitement in the journey of learning.

As a son, brother, uncle and friend, Nelson leaves behind a community of individuals whose lives he meaningfully touched. He will be deeply missed; his smile and authenticity will forever remain in our memories. Though our hearts are heavy that the world is a little bit dimmer without him, we celebrate Nelson!