Martha Joyce Rhoda

MARTHA JOYCE RHODA VALPARAISO, IN
Martha Joyce Rhoda, 96, of Valparaiso passed away Tuesday, April 19, 2016. She was born January 5, 1920 in Valparaiso to Lorenzo Dow and Nina Florine (Goetz) Smith, graduated from Valparaiso High School in 1938 and received her B.A. in English and Physical Education from Indiana University. Joyce began her career with Hobart Schools before dedicating herself to raising her children. She was a member of First United Methodist Church of Valparaiso, served as the first president of P.E.O. Chapter BO and enjoyed membership with Phi Mu sorority. Reading and sports of all varieties were enjoyed during Joyce's leisure time. On September 4, 1943 she married Robert L. Rhoda, Sr. who preceded her in death in 2011. Survivors include their children: Lynne (Doyne) Swinford of Indianapolis, Kevin (Mona) Rhoda of Bennington, NE, Brian (Gaylene) Rhoda of Valparaiso, grandchildren: Stefanie (Rob) Walter of Georgia, Simeon Peebler (Kirsten Bedway) of Illinois, Aaron (Jenny) Rhoda of Nebraska, Kimberly (Erich) Eriksen of Missouri, Adrienne (Kenny) Pitzl of Nebraska, Rachel (Caleb) Childress of Texas and 11 great grandchildren. She was also preceded in death by one son, Robert L. Rhoda, Jr. in 2011. A memorial visitation will be held on Saturday, May 28, 2016 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at Moeller Funeral Home, Valparaiso with memorial service beginning at 12:00 noon, Rev. Al Holsopple officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to a charity of your choice.