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Wayne Rhoades Obituary
1925 - 2013
Resident of Union City
Wayne Rhoades of Union City passed away peacefully July 7, 2013 from COPD. He was 87 years old.
He was raised on a farm near Culbertson, Nebraska with 8 siblings. Wayne started his education at a one-room country schoolhouse. He put himself through college by Golden Gloves boxing competitions and the G.I. Bill. He served in the Navy during WW II in Borneo and the Philippines. While earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Education from Kearney State Teachers College in Nebraska he met and married his beautiful wife Betty. They have been married for 66 years and have two daughters, Jody and Laurie. He also earned a Master of Arts Degree in Education from Kearney State and another Master of Arts Degree in Economics from the University of Illinois. Mr. Rhoades not only excelled as a student but also as a teacher and coach. He began his 38 year teaching career in 1949 at Hayes Center, Nebraska. He then returned to teach at his alma mater in Culbertson and later in Kearney, Nebraska.
In 1964 he moved his family to San Leandro to teach at Pacific High School, San Leandro High and Chabot College. Most of all Wayne enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren and meeting with his long-time friends for coffee. During retirement he took long neighborhood walks where he met many friends. He loved partaking in a good discussion any time. He was an avid sports fan. He played football in college and played tennis until he was 80 years old.
Wayne's great wit, humor and honesty will be sorely missed. He gave us his time and influenced many. He was a devoted husband, caring father, super grandpa and loyal friend. He is unforgettable and irreplaceable to all who knew him. He will remain in the hearts of each of us lucky enough to know and love him.
Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, 2 daughters, 3 siblings, 8 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, 2 great-great grandchildren, plus numerous friends and countless former students.
At Mr. Rhoades request there will be no service held.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Wayne Rhoades
Peggy Poteet Kruger
July 29, 2013
My condolences to you Laurie and family. I have missed your Dad's daily walks through the neighborhood for quite some time...especially missing my bag of plums and sweet conversation. He was a love. Strength to you.
Ken Purdy
July 29, 2013
Mr. Rhoades was also my 9th. grade football coach in Kearney, NE. We really did pretty good for a bunch of nobodys especially at that age. I remember both Chuck and Dave from school! Coach Rhoades obviously made an impression to many of us. I had always remembered his nickname "Dusty". My thoughts will be with your family during this time.
Ken Purdy
July 29, 2013
Coach Rhoades was also was my 9th. grade football coach in Kearney, NE. I see other people have mentioned him so obviously Mr. Rhoades was an individual who made an impact on our lives. I'll always remember your nickname "Dusty". My thoughts are with the family at this time.
Darrell Santos
July 29, 2013
A very fine gentleman, teacher and respected person. I first met him in San Leandro as I went to school with his daughter Laurie. Later he was my teacher and just a real good person. My condolences to the family.
David Walker
July 28, 2013
Dusty you coached me in 9th grade football ,you were a great coach. We all will miss you.
Chuck Helms
July 28, 2013
Coach Rhoades was my 9th grade football and basketball coach. He made me a better football player and person. As far as basketball went he tried to make a silk purse out of pig's ear without much acheivement.
He was a great coach and a good man.
Ernest Matuschka
July 27, 2013
Dusty, I remember you well. I was one of your sparing partners. I was a little better than a punching bag as I did move around and moan and groan. Rest in Peace. e
Don Frazier
July 25, 2013
Wayne was my brother-in-law since December 1947 and a big role model since my last two years in high school. I have many fond memories of Wayne. One example, to be a little leery when asked a leading question, as I learned a debate was about to ensue; One that rarely ended in a draw.
Rest in peace Wayne...'till me meet again. Blessings and comfort to Betty and your extended family.
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