Neil R. Rodriguez, 70 of Lake Mary lost his battle with cancer on Monday, February 27, 2012.  Neil was born September 3, 1941 in Manhattan, NY to the late Mary Muniz and Antonio Rodriguez.  He was very proud of his 45 year career as a bartender.  Which at the height of his career he was the Head Bartender at The Helmsley Palace in New York City.  Neil was preceded in death by his brother, George Plata and niece, Linda Susan Naughton.  He is survivied by his loving wife, Anita; daughter, Lisa O'Leary; step-children, John Easterday and Michele DeYoung; grandchildren, Zachary O'Leary and Nathan De Young; sisters, Elsie Lieber and Agnes Rodriguez and ten nieces and twelve nephews.  Neil will be remembered for the love that he had for his family and friends.  Private family services will be held