Memorials

Ronald D. Rhoades, 83, a former resident of South Whitley died Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at 1:33 p.m. at Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home, Fort Wayne.
He was born March 15, 1925 in Fort Wayne, a son of Russell and Ruth (Stucky) Rhoades. He spent his formative years in South Whitley where he graduated from South Whitley High School in 1943.
On September 6, 1944 he entered the U.S. Army and served in the European Theater during WWII. He was honorably discharged on June 30, 1946.
On April 8, 1946, he was united in marriage to Christine Bowling. They made their home in South Whitley. Mrs. Rhoades died August 16, 2000. On July 22, 2002, he was united in marriage to Maxine (Tucker) Chalk. They made their home in North Manchester.
He was employed by Peabody Seating Company in North Manchester where he retired with 34 years of service. He last held the position as foreman.
His memberships include American Legion Post 286, North Manchester, VFW 2919, South Whitley and he attended the Liberty Mills United Methodist Church.
Surviving relatives include his wife, Maxine; two daughters, Lana R. Wheeler, Columbia City and Teresa (Ray) Helton, Lakevilla, Illinois; three sons, Roger Rhoades, Fort Wayne, Ronnie G. Rhoades, Columbia City and Rick L. (Deborah) Rhoades, Fort Wayne; two step-sons, Carl (Rita) Chalk, Columbia City and David Chalk, Laketon; two step-daughters, Peggy (Perry) Townsley, Lutz, Florida, and Terri (Greg) Caughell, Roann; two brothers, Russell Rhoades Jr., South Whitley and Harold Rhoades, Columbia City; one sister Maxine Johnson, Warsaw; 13 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, seven step-grandchildren and five step-great grandchildren.
In addition to his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by a brother, William Rhoades.
The funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 4, 2008, at Smith & Sons Miller Chapel, South Whitley with Reverend Greg Bradford of Liberty Mills United Methodist Church officiating. Burial will be in the South Whitley Cemetery with North Manchester American Legion Post 286 presenting honors. Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Saturday, May 3, 2008, at the funeral home.
For those who wish, memorials may be made to Visiting Nurse and Hospice Home or the Alzheimer’s Foundation.